Production of Cellulose and Chitin Nanofibers Based Masks for Protecting Against Corona Virus: A Review

Abstract

The corona virus or SARS-CoV2 is a pathogenic virus that has become a pandemic and a threat in almost all countries in the world. SARS-CoV2 belongs to the Coronaviridae family with particle sizes varying around 60 nm - 140 nm. Various regulations and prevention have been designed to reduce the impact of Covid-19 by SARS-CoV2. Several technologies and studies have been developed to form nanofiber woven membranes. Cellulose nanofibers and chitin/chitosan nanofibers have been studied and are known to have nanometer-sized structures smaller than SARS-CoV2. Chitin/chitosan has been investigated to have antiviral properties, especially corona virus. Cellulose nanofibers, and chitin/chitosan nanofibers has the potential to be developed for Covid-19 virus nanofiltration masks. Various active agents (nanosilver, nanogold, CuO, etc.) have been known to have antiviral and/or antibacterial properties so that they can be used as nanofillers to enhance the performance and effectiveness of nanofibers based masks against SARS-CoV2.

Smart Nanofibers: Synthesis, Properties, and Scopes in Future Advanced Technologies

“…Today, the masks based on nanofibers have received attention for many reasons, which include: i) Nanofibers with nano and microscale porosity decrease the possibility of particle penetration and improve the mask's filtering capacity. [ 42 ] ii) A large number of pores and a large surface area increase the life of the mask and its absorption capacity. iii) Nanofibers are lightweight, which helps the user feel at ease.…”