Do Face Masks become Worthless after Only One Use in the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), world-wide face mask use is increasing exponentially. These face masks are difficult to recycle, and their accumulation contributes to enormous environmental threats. In this study, we hypothesize that the face mask can be reused as long as it retains its original structure, which will slow the environmental impacts.

We selected common disposable surgical masks for this study and classified test conditions based on wear time and reuse method. After wearing the mask for 10 hours, we let it dry naturally in the shade for 14 hours. The specimens were measured by scanning electron microscope and capillary flow porometer.

The pore structure of the mask did not change when worn 4 times for 10 hours each time, and there was no significant pore structure change when impregnated with ethyl alcohol (purity 95%), treated with UV or steam, or run through a washing machine.

The pore structure of the surgical mask was not changed significantly after 40 hours of use. Surgical mask pore structure did not change significantly after treatment with ethyl alcohol, UV light, steam, or a washing machine.