'The inner layer is made of absorbent material like cotton to absorb vapor.'

g., polypropylene and polystyrene) created using a meltblowing process, which prevents droplets and aerosols via an electrostatic effect. 'The middle layer is non-woven fabrics (e. 'The outer layer is made up of nonabsorbent material (e.g., polyester) that protects against liquid splashes. 'The common disposable surgical masks are made of three layers,' the researchers explain. 'With increasing reports on inappropriate disposal of masks, it is urgent to recognize this potential environmental threat and prevent it from becoming the next plastic problem,' the researchers warn. They add that littering is causing masks to break down into dangerous microfibers and they may also be carrying harmful chemicals into the environment.Įnvironmental Toxicologist Elvis Genbo Xu from the University of Southern Denmark and Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering Zhiyong Jason Ren from Princeton University penned an article on the topic in the journal Frontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering.Īnd the conundrum of what to do with the recent deluge of masks truly is a new frontier for scientists, who have never before been faced with such a rapid explosion of a product for which there is no established responsible disposal method. In an article published by the University of Southern Denmark last year, experts called the huge amount of face masks being worn and thrown away a 'ticking time bomb'. The goal is to eliminate the tons of PPEs that are tossed into landfills, as most of them end up in lakes, rivers and the ocean - chocking marine life. 'While our research is in the early stages, these promising initial findings are an important step towards the development of effective recycling systems to keep disposable PPE waste out of landfill,' he said. Joint lead author, Dr Rajeev Roychand, said there was real potential for construction industries around the world to play a significant role in transforming this waste into a valuable resource.

The team has been working on combining disposable masks with concrete since 2021, but the latest research includes hospital grade gowns and rubber gloves. Pictured is RMIT's Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch, lead author of the study, with the innovated concrete

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