Development of an anti-viral/bacterial mask with durable functional properties using graphene nano-particles

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for reusable masks with better antiviral and antibacterial properties. Graphene-based nanomaterials, with their potent biocidal properties and impressive longevity, present a promising avenue for developing cutting-edge protective fabrics. This study intended to create a textile mask treated with reduced graphene oxide (rGO), intending to meet the World Health Organization’s performance standards. Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was created using a modified Hummers’ process. This rGO was then applied to the outer layer, which was made of woven cotton and polyester, using a polyurethane binder. At the same time, the inner cotton layer was treated with chitosan. The mask was examined based on the World Health Organization’s standards, looking for harmful substances and how well it held up following five and ten ISO washing cycles. The antibacterial effects were tested on E. coli and S. aureus , while the antiviral effects were evaluated against SARS-CoV-2. The reduced graphene oxide (rGO) covering demonstrated a consistent distribution, with particle sizes ranging from 100 to 200 nanometers. Every cloth that underwent treatment met the safety and performance standards set by the World Health Organization. The antibacterial effect grew as the rGO concentration rose, with a significant inhibition seen at 0.4%. The mask showed a 99.3% reduction in SARS-CoV-2 after 20 min with 75 mg of graphene. Its effectiveness remained at 96.6% after five wash cycles and 80.4% after ten cycles. The development of a long-lasting, reusable textile mask, coated with graphene and showing strong antibacterial and antiviral properties, was successful. This technique provides a sustainable protective solution, and it also holds promise as a platform for future uses of antimicrobial textiles. Not applicable.