Sustainable application study of disposable medical waste masks in cement based on green Fenton reaction

Abstract

This study addresses disposable medical mask (DMM) environmental issues through recycling polypropylene fibers. Polypropylene fibers were collected from DMMs, artificially crush them, and enhance fiber–cement interaction via advanced Fenton oxidation. Analysis (Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, x‐ray photoelectron spectrometer, field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM), energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectrometer, atomic force microscope, contact angle) confirms successful FeOOH grafting onto M‐DMM fibers, increasing roughness and wettability. Compared with DMM fibers, the surface free energy of M‐DMM fibers increased by 46.3%. Consequently, the grafting of FeOOH onto the fiber surface improves the physical friction and interlocking effects between the fibers and cement. FE‐SEM results after 28 days of curing reveal that M‐DMM fibers exhibit better bonding ability with cement compared with unmodified DMM fibers. Mechanical tests unequivocally demonstrated the enhanced impact resistance of the cement mortar incorporating M‐DMM fibers compared to the reference. Specifically, there was a significant 16.0% increase at 7 days of curing, followed by an additional 4.5% improvement after 28 days of curing. This study provides an eco‐friendly solution for addressing the post‐pandemic surge in DMM waste, reducing microplastic pollution, and lowering disposal costs. It also offers the construction industry an innovative material enhancing cement mortar's impact resistance, aligning with sustainable development principles.