In Vitro Assessment of Boswellia serrata Incorporated N95 Mask Layers -Specific Efficacy Comparison

This research focuses on designing a novel, five-layered N95 mask fabric that integrates the natural antimicrobial properties of Boswellia serrata, thereby unlocking a new dimension in respiratory protection. Specifically, the second and third layers of the mask fabric were coated with a chloroform extract of Boswellia serrata to impart layer-specific functionality. The functionalized mask fabrics underwent rigorous analysis, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and wettability measurements, confirming the successful incorporation of the extract. The contact killing assay demonstrated a highly effective dual-action defense system. The extract-coated second layer exhibited a rapid, but transient, antimicrobial effect, showing excellent inhibition within one hour (92% against S. aureus, 86% against E. aerogenes), though this effect diminished significantly by eight hours. In contrast, the third layer provided a prolonged and sustained antimicrobial effect, maintaining high inhibition even after eight hours (100% against C. albicans and K. pneumoniae, and 90% against E. aerogenes). Maximum killing efficiency was observed at four hours for both layers. This innovative application of layer-specific engineering offers enhanced and prolonged protection against airborne pathogens, marking a significant leap in mask technology.