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Safety and structural integrity of N95/PFF2 respirators decontamination
Wanderson Eduardo Gomes de Souza Coelho1, Fabiana Perrechil2, Mavilde L G Pedreira1
1Escola Paulista de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil.
American Journal of Infection Control
|July 6, 2021
Summary
Hydrogen peroxide effectively decontaminates N95/PFF2 respirators without compromising their structure or fit. This method ensures the safety and reusability of essential personal protective equipment for healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Materials Science
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, poses significant risks to healthcare professionals.
- Scarcity of personal protective equipment (PPE) necessitates research into effective decontamination methods.
- N95/PFF2 respirators are critical PPE, requiring evaluation for safe reuse.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety and efficacy of hydrogen peroxide for decontaminating N95/PFF2 respirators.
- To determine if decontamination affects the structural integrity and sealing of the respirators.
Main Methods:
- N95/PFF2 respirators underwent multiple hydrogen peroxide decontamination cycles.
- Scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis evaluated structural and thermal integrity.
- Qualitative fit testing assessed respirator sealing post-decontamination.
Main Results:
- Fiber morphology remained unaffected after six decontamination cycles.
- Thermal stability of respirator layers showed minimal changes.
- All decontaminated respirators passed qualitative fit testing, indicating maintained sealing.
Conclusions:
- Hydrogen peroxide decontamination is an effective method for N95/PFF2 respirators.
- The physical properties and protective efficacy of the respirators are preserved.
- This method supports the safe reuse of respirators, addressing PPE shortages.
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