Researchers from the Amity University, a leading private university located in Gurugram, Haryana, developed novel nanoparticle coated N95 masks using 3D printing technology. These masks are said to be reusable, recyclable, washable, odourless, non-allergic, and anti-microbial. According to the Union Ministry of Science and Technology, the four-layer mask with a silicon outer layer has a shelf life of more than 5 years depending on use.
According to a press release issued by the ministry, the Indian researchers collaborated with the University of Nebraska in the United States to develop the N95 masks using 3D printing technology, which has enormous potential as a prophylactic.
Nanoparticle Coated N95 masks using 3D Printing Technology
The N95 masks will be quite useful in a variety of applications, besides its obvious and popular use in preventing infections such as COVID 19. The mask can be used by workers in various industries where they are exposed to high levels of dust, such as cement factories, brick kilns, cotton factories, and pain industries.
The mask has a 4-layer filtration mechanism, with nanoparticles coating the outer and first layers of the filter. The second layer is a HEPA filter, the third layer is a 100 m filter, and the fourth layer is a moisture absorbent filter.
According to the Union ministry, “It can be modified according to the requirement by changing the filter configuration according to the place in which it will be used and can help prevent severe lung diseases such as SILICOSIS. A trademark and a patent have also been filed for the mask called Nano Breath.”
This work was carried out using a Zetasizer Nano ZS, a facility supported by the Department of Science and Technology's (DST) 'Fund for Improvement of Science and Technology Infrastructure' (FIST) project that enables high temperature thermal analysis for ceramic materials and catalysis applications.
The PIB press release does not state detailed information on the 3D printing process employed, the material used, the number of pieces manufactured, the tests or even the size and weight of the masks. However, Manufactur3D will follow up with the researchers to bring you more information on this soon.
