Functionalized Face Masks as Smart Wearable Sensors for Multiple Sensing.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Sensor Technology
• Public Health

Background:

• Wearable sensors enable continuous physiological monitoring for personalized health management.
• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the development of functionalized face masks as smart sensors.
• Smart face masks offer potential for physiological health and environmental monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in smart face mask technology for respiratory monitoring.
• To highlight the advantages of smart face masks, including autonomous flow, real-time data, and diversified sensing.
• To discuss the association between respiratory signals and health/environmental monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on smart face mask applications.
• Analysis of digital technologies and electronics integrated into face masks.
• Examination of diverse respiratory signals (physical, inhalational, exhalant) and their monitoring capabilities.

Main Results:

• Smart face masks demonstrate potential for multimodal and multiplexed measurements.
• Key advantages include autonomous flow, signal enrichment, real-time monitoring, and accessibility.
• Applications span personal health management and environmental pollution detection.

Conclusions:

• Smart functionalized face masks represent a significant advancement in wearable sensing for respiratory health.
• Further research and development are needed to overcome challenges in commercialization.
• These devices hold promise for integrated health and environmental monitoring.