Copper-impregnated three-layer mask efficiently inactivates SARS-CoV2.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Virology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates advanced personal protective equipment.
• Developing effective antiviral materials for masks is crucial for public health.
• Copper sulfide (CuS) shows promise as an antiviral agent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the SARS-CoV-2 inactivation potential of a novel three-layer mask incorporating copper sulfide (CuS).
• To assess the antiviral efficacy and droplet entrapment capabilities of the CuS-integrated mask design.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a three-layer mask with CuS incorporated in outer and middle layers.
• Antiviral efficacy testing against SARS-CoV-2 using cytopathy, fluorescence, and viral copy number analysis.
• Assessment of droplet entrapment kinetics and CuS distribution within the fabric.

Main Results:

• The CuS-incorporated mask demonstrated high effectiveness in inactivating SARS-CoV-2 within 30 minutes.
• Near-complete virus elimination was observed after 1-2 hours of exposure.
• The mask exhibited efficient droplet entrapment, blocking >99% for short durations and 80% for longer periods.
• Solid-state CuS, not ionic forms, was responsible for the antiviral activity.
• CuS was evenly distributed and showed no significant shedding from the fabric.

Conclusions:

• The copper sulfide-integrated three-layer mask presents a highly effective solution for SARS-CoV-2 inactivation.
• This mask design offers a promising protective measure against airborne viral transmission.
• The findings suggest the potential of CuS-based materials for next-generation antiviral textiles.