1
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Bulgarin H, Thomberg T, Lust A, Nerut J, Koppel M, Romann T, Palm R, Månsson M, Vana M, Junninen H, Külaviir M, Paiste P, Kirsimäe K, Punapart M, Viru L, Merits A, Lust E. Enhanced and copper concentration dependent virucidal effect against SARS-CoV-2 of electrospun poly(vinylidene difluoride) filter materials. iScience 2024; 27:109835. [PMID: 38799576 PMCID: PMC11126773 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Virucidal filter materials were prepared by electrospinning a solution of 28 wt % poly(vinylidene difluoride) in N,N-dimethylacetamide without and with the addition of 0.25 wt %, 0.75 wt %, 2.0 wt %, or 3.5 wt % Cu(NO3)2 · 2.5H2O as virucidal agent. The fabricated materials had a uniform and defect free fibrous structure and even distribution of copper nanoclusters. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that during the electrospinning process, Cu(NO3)2 · 2.5H2O changed into Cu2(NO3)(OH)3. Electrospun filter materials obtained by electrospinning were essentially macroporous. Smaller pores of copper nanoclusters containing materials resulted in higher particle filtration than those without copper nanoclusters. Electrospun filter material fabricated with the addition of 2.0 wt % and 3.5 wt % of Cu(NO3)2 · 2.5H2O in a spinning solution showed significant virucidal activity, and there was 2.5 ± 0.35 and 3.2 ± 0.30 logarithmic reduction in the concentration of infectious SARS-CoV-2 within 12 h, respectively. The electrospun filter materials were stable as they retained virucidal activity for three months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Bulgarin
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Thomas Thomberg
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Lust
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jaak Nerut
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Miriam Koppel
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tavo Romann
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Rasmus Palm
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Månsson
- Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marko Vana
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwald 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Heikki Junninen
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwald 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marian Külaviir
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Päärn Paiste
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kalle Kirsimäe
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marite Punapart
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Liane Viru
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Merits
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Enn Lust
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
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2
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Toptaş A, Çalışır MD, Kılıç A. Production of Ultrafine PVDF Nanofiber-/Nanonet-Based Air Filters via the Electroblowing Technique by Employing PEG as a Pore-Forming Agent. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:38557-38565. [PMID: 37867706 PMCID: PMC10586252 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c05509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Particles with diameters smaller than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) can penetrate the respiratory system and have negative impacts on human health. Filter media with a porous surface and nanofiber/nanonet structure demonstrate superior filtration performance compared to traditional nano- and microfiber-based filters. In this study, nanostructured filters were produced using the electroblowing method from solutions containing different ratios of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymers for the first time. By increasing the water-soluble PEG ratio in PVDF/PEG blend nanofibers and employing a water bath treatment to the produced mat afterward, a more porous fibrous structure was obtained with a lower average fiber diameter. Notably, the removal of PEG from the PVDF/PEG (3-7) sample, which had the highest PEG content, exhibited clustered nanofiber-/nanonet-like structures with average diameters of 170 and 50 nm at the points where the fibers intersect. Although this process resulted in a slight decrease in the filtration efficiency (-1.3%), the significant reduction observed in pressure drop led to a 3.2% increase in the quality factor (QF). Additionally, by exploiting the polarizability of PVDF under an electric field, the filtration efficiency of the nanostructured PVDF filters enhanced with a ratio of 3.6% after corona discharge treatment leading to a 60% improvement in the QF. As a result, the PVDF/PEG (3-7) sample presented an impressive filtration efficiency of 99.57%, a pressure drop (ΔP) of 158 Pa, and a QF of 0.0345 Pa-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Toptaş
- TEMAG
Laboratories, Textile Technol. and Design Faculty, Istanbul Technical University, 34437 Istanbul, Turkey
- Safranbolu
Vocational School, Karabuk University, 78600 Karabuk, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Durmuş Çalışır
- TEMAG
Laboratories, Textile Technol. and Design Faculty, Istanbul Technical University, 34437 Istanbul, Turkey
- Faculty
of Engineering and Architecture, Recep Tayyip
Erdogan University, 53100 Rize, Turkey
| | - Ali Kılıç
- TEMAG
Laboratories, Textile Technol. and Design Faculty, Istanbul Technical University, 34437 Istanbul, Turkey
- Areka
Advanced Technologies LLC, 34467 Istanbul, Turkey
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3
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Morina E, Dotter M, Döpke C, Kola I, Spahiu T, Ehrmann A. Homogeneity of Needleless Electrospun Nanofiber Mats. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2507. [PMID: 37764536 PMCID: PMC10535507 DOI: 10.3390/nano13182507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Nanofiber mats can be electrospun by different techniques, usually subdivided into needle-based and needleless. The latter allow for producing large-area nanofiber mats, e.g., with a width of 50 cm and lengths of several meters, if electrospinning proceeds for several hours, depending on the required thickness. Even spinning smaller samples, however, raises the question of homogeneity, especially if defined mechanical properties or a defined thickness is required, e.g., for filtration purposes. Very often, only the inner parts of such electrospun nanofiber mats are used to avoid too high variation of the nanofiber mat thickness. For this study, we used wire-based electrospinning to prepare nanofiber mats with slightly varying spinning parameters. We report investigations of the thickness and mass per unit area, measured on different positions of needleless electrospun nanofiber mats. Martindale abrasion tests on different positions are added as a measure of the mechanical properties. All nanofiber mats show unexpectedly strong variations of thickness, mass per unit area, and porosity, as calculated from the apparent density of the membranes. The thickness especially varied by nearly one order of magnitude within one sample, while the apparent density, as the most uniform parameter, still showed variations by more than a factor of two within one sample. This shows that even for apparently highly homogeneous areas of such nanofiber mats, variations cannot be neglected for all potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edona Morina
- Department of Textile and Fashion, Polytechnic University of Tirana, 1019 Tirana, Albania
| | - Marius Dotter
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Christoph Döpke
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Ilda Kola
- Department of Textile and Fashion, Polytechnic University of Tirana, 1019 Tirana, Albania
| | - Tatjana Spahiu
- Department of Textile and Fashion, Polytechnic University of Tirana, 1019 Tirana, Albania
| | - Andrea Ehrmann
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany
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4
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Cimini A, Imperi E, Picano A, Rossi M. Electrospun nanofibers for medical face mask with protection capabilities against viruses: State of the art and perspective for industrial scale-up. APPLIED MATERIALS TODAY 2023; 32:101833. [PMID: 37152683 PMCID: PMC10151159 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmt.2023.101833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Face masks have proven to be a useful protection from airborne viruses and bacteria, especially in the recent years pandemic outbreak when they effectively lowered the risk of infection from Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) or Omicron variants, being recognized as one of the main protective measures adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO). The need for improving the filtering efficiency performance to prevent penetration of fine particulate matter (PM), which can be potential bacteria or virus carriers, has led the research into developing new methods and techniques for face mask fabrication. In this perspective, Electrospinning has shown to be the most efficient technique to get either synthetic or natural polymers-based fibers with size down to the nanoscale providing remarkable performance in terms of both particle filtration and breathability. The aim of this Review is to give further insight into the implementation of electrospun nanofibers for the realization of the next generation of face masks, with functionalized membranes via addiction of active material to the polymer solutions that can give optimal features about antibacterial, antiviral, self-sterilization, and electrical energy storage capabilities. Furthermore, the recent advances regarding the use of renewable materials and green solvent strategies to improve the sustainability of electrospun membranes and to fabricate eco-friendly filters are here discussed, especially in view of the large-scale nanofiber production where traditional membrane manufacturing may result in a high environmental and health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cimini
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences for Engineering, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome 00161, Italy
- LABOR s.r.l., Industrial Research Laboratory, Via Giacomo Peroni, 386, Rome, Italy
| | - E Imperi
- LABOR s.r.l., Industrial Research Laboratory, Via Giacomo Peroni, 386, Rome, Italy
| | - A Picano
- LABOR s.r.l., Industrial Research Laboratory, Via Giacomo Peroni, 386, Rome, Italy
| | - M Rossi
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences for Engineering, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome 00161, Italy
- Research Center for Nanotechnology for Engineering of Sapienza (CNIS), University of Rome Sapienza, Rome 00185, Italy
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5
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Li Y, Hua Y, Ji Z, Wu Z, Fan J, Liu Y. Dual-bionic nano-groove structured nanofibers for breathable and moisture-wicking protective respirators. J Memb Sci 2023; 672:121257. [PMID: 36593802 PMCID: PMC9797220 DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2022.121257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic makes protective respirators highly demanded. The respirator materials should filter out viral fine aerosols effectively, allow airflow to pass through easily, and wick away the exhalant moisture timely. However, the commonly used melt-blown nonwovens perform poorly in meeting these requirements simultaneously. Herein, dual-bionic nano-groove structured (NGS) nanofibers are fabricated to serve as protective, breathable and moisture-wicking respirator materials. The creativity of this design is that the tailoring of dual-bionic nano-groove structure, combined with the strong polarity and hydrophilicity of electrospinning polymer, not only endows the nanofibrous materials with improved particle capture ability but also enable them to wick away and transmit breathing moisture. Benefitting from the synthetic effect of hierarchical structure and the intrinsic property of polymers, the resulting NGS nanofibrous membranes show a high filtration efficiency of 99.96%, a low pressure drop of 110 Pa, and a high moisture transmission rate of 5.67 kg m-2 d-1 at the same time. More importantly, the sharp increase of breathing resistance caused by the condensation of exhaled moisture is avoided, overcoming the bottleneck faced by traditional nonwovens and paving a new way for developing protective respirators with high wear comfortability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, School of Textile Science and Engineering, Tiangong University, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Yuezhen Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, School of Textile Science and Engineering, Tiangong University, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Zekai Ji
- Nantong Bolian Material Technology Co, Ltd, Nantong, 226010, China
| | - Zheng Wu
- Nantong Bolian Material Technology Co, Ltd, Nantong, 226010, China
| | - Jie Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, School of Textile Science and Engineering, Tiangong University, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Yong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, School of Textile Science and Engineering, Tiangong University, Tianjin, 300387, China
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Zhang Z, Jia S, Wu W, Xiao G, Sundarrajan S, Ramakrishna S. Electrospun transparent nanofibers as a next generation face filtration media: A review. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 149:213390. [PMID: 36963249 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
The development of fascinating materials with functional properties has revolutionized the humankind with materials comfort, stopped the spreading of diseases, relieving the environmental pollution pressure, economized government research funds, and prolonged their serving life. The outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has triggered great global public health concern. Face masks are crucial tools to impede the spreading of SARS-CoV-2 from human to human. However, current face masks exhibit in a variety of colors (opaque), like blue, black, red, etc., leading to a communication barrier between the doctor and the deaf-mute patient when wearing a mask. High optical transparency filters can be utilized for both personal protection and lip-reading. Thus, shaping face air filter into a transparent appearance is an urgent need. Electrospinning technology, as a mature technology, is commonly used to form nanofiber materials utilizing high electrical voltage. With the alteration of the diameters of nanofibers, and proper material selection, it would be possible to make the transparent face mask. In this article, the research progress in the transparent face air filter is reviewed with emphasis on three parts: mechanism of the electrospinning process and light transmission, preparation of transparent face air filter, and their innovative potential. Through the assessment of classic cases, the benefits and drawbacks of various preparation strategies and products are evaluated, to provide general knowledge for the needs of different application scenarios. In the end, the development directions of transparent face masks in protective gear, particularly their novel functional applications and potential contributions in the prevention and control of the epidemic are also proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongqi Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117574, Singapore
| | - Shuyue Jia
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117574, Singapore; School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Wenting Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Guomin Xiao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China.
| | - Subramanian Sundarrajan
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117574, Singapore; Department of Prosthodontics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117574, Singapore.
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7
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Thomberg T, Bulgarin H, Lust A, Nerut J, Koppel M, Romann T, Palm R, Månsson M, Flores March NM, Junninen H, Külaviir M, Paiste P, Kirsimäe K, Punapart M, Viru L, Merits A, Lust E. The anti SARS-CoV-2 activity of nanofibrous filter materials activated with metal clusters. ATMOSPHERIC ENVIRONMENT: X 2023; 17:100212. [PMID: 36915669 PMCID: PMC9984305 DOI: 10.1016/j.aeaoa.2023.100212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nanofibrous filter materials were prepared by electrospinning a solution of 28 wt% poly(vinylidene fluoride) in N,N-dimethylacetamide with and without the addition of 2 wt% AgNO3, Cu(NO3)2·2.5H2O or ZnCl2. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, contact angle measurement, nitrogen sorption, and mercury intrusion porosimetry methods were used for the characterization of physical structure as well as the chemical composition of the electrospun materials. Particle filtration efficiency and antiviral activity against the SARS-CoV-2 alpha variant were tested in order to estimate the suitability of the prepared electrospun filter materials for application as indoor air filtration systems with virucidal properties. All filter materials prepared with salts demonstrated very high particle filtration efficiency (≥98.0%). The best antiviral activity was demonstrated by a material containing Cu(NO3)2·2.5H2O in the spinning solution, which displayed the decrease in the number of infectious virions by three orders of magnitude after a contact time of 12 h. Materials with the addition of AgNO3 and ZnCl2 decreased the number of infectious virions after the same contact time by only ∼8 and ∼11 times, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Thomberg
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - H Bulgarin
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - A Lust
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - J Nerut
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - M Koppel
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - T Romann
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - R Palm
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - M Månsson
- Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - N M Flores March
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwald 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - H Junninen
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwald 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - M Külaviir
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - P Paiste
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - K Kirsimäe
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - M Punapart
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - L Viru
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - A Merits
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - E Lust
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
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8
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Beckman IP, Berry G, Cho H, Riveros G. Alternative High-Performance Fibers for Nonwoven HEPA Filter Media. AEROSOL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2023; 7:36-58. [PMCID: PMC9579614 DOI: 10.1007/s41810-022-00161-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Continual research, development, and advancement in air filtration technology is important to abate the ever increasing health hazards of air pollution and global pandemics. The purpose of this review is to survey, categorize, and compare mechanical and thermal characteristics of fibers to assess their potential applicability in air filter media. The history of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter development explains how we arrived at the current state of the art nonwoven fibrous borosilicate glass filter paper. This review explores the history and practical uses of particular fiber types and explains fiber production methods in general terms. The thermal and mechanical properties of particular fibers are examined using the codes and standards produced by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) to generalize the applicability of fiber categories for HEPA filter units within the nuclear air cleaning industry. This review discusses common measurements for specific strength and tenacity used by the textile and construction industries. Particular fibers are selectively compared for density, tensile strength, tensile stiffness, flexural rigidity, moisture regain, decomposition temperature, and thermal expansion. This review concludes with a subjective assessment of which types of fibers may be appropriate to study for HEPA filtration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan P. Beckman
- Information Technology Laboratory, U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, MS 39180 USA
- Institute for Clean Energy Technology, Mississippi State University, 205 Research Blvd., Starkville, MS 39759 USA
| | - Gentry Berry
- Institute for Clean Energy Technology, Mississippi State University, 205 Research Blvd., Starkville, MS 39759 USA
| | - Heejin Cho
- Institute for Clean Energy Technology, Mississippi State University, 205 Research Blvd., Starkville, MS 39759 USA
| | - Guillermo Riveros
- Information Technology Laboratory, U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, MS 39180 USA
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9
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Gungor M, Selcuk S, Toptas A, Kilic A. Aerosol Filtration Performance of Solution Blown PA6 Webs with Bimodal Fiber Distribution. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:46602-46612. [PMID: 36570188 PMCID: PMC9773963 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c05449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
A bimodal web, where both nanofibers and microfibers are present and distributed randomly across the same web, can deliver high filter efficiency and low pressure drop at the same time since in such a web, filter efficiency is high thanks to small pores created by the presence of nanofibers and the interfiber space created by the presence of microfibers, which is large enough for air to flow through with little resistance. In this work, a bimodal polyamide 6 (PA6) filter web was fabricated via a modified solution blowing (m-SB) technique that produced nanofibers and microfibers simultaneously. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the webs were used to analyze the fiber morphology. Additionally, air permeability, solidity, porosity, filtration performance, and tensile strength of the samples were measured. The bimodal filter web consisted of nanofibers and microfibers with average diameters of 81.5 ± 127 nm and 1.6 ± 0.458 μm, respectively. Its filter efficiency, pressure drop at 95 L min-1, and tensile strength were 98.891%, 168 Pa, and 0.1 MPa, respectively. Its quality factor (QF) and tensile strength were 0.0268 Pa-1 and 0.1 MPa, respectively. When compared with commercially available filters, the bimodal web produced had superior filter performance, constituting a suitable alternative for air filter applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melike Gungor
- TEMAG
Lab., Textile Technol. and Design Faculty, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul34437, Turkey
- Areka
Advanced Technologies Ltd. Co., Istanbul34467, Turkey
| | - Sule Selcuk
- TEMAG
Lab., Textile Technol. and Design Faculty, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul34437, Turkey
| | - Ali Toptas
- TEMAG
Lab., Textile Technol. and Design Faculty, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul34437, Turkey
- Safranbolu
Vocational School, Karabuk University, Karabuk78050, Turkey
| | - Ali Kilic
- TEMAG
Lab., Textile Technol. and Design Faculty, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul34437, Turkey
- Areka
Advanced Technologies Ltd. Co., Istanbul34467, Turkey
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10
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Salkovskiy Y, Fadeev A. High-efficiency retention of ultrafine aerosols by electrospun nanofibers. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20850. [PMID: 36460686 PMCID: PMC9717556 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24739-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The versatility of nanofibrous polymeric materials makes them attractive for developing respiratory protective equipment. Ultrafine nanofibers effectively trap the most penetrating aerosols and exhibit consistent performance compared to conventional electret filters. Advanced nanofiber manufacturing technologies such as electrospinning can functionalize filter materials, enhancing them with unique antibacterial, catalytic, sensory, and other properties. Much of the current research in nanofibrous air filtration focuses on using nanofibers for lightweight personal protective equipment such as N95 respirators, but their use for higher levels of respiratory protection required for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) protection has not yet been comprehensively explored. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that electrospun filters could provide the particle filtration efficiency and breathing resistance required by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Standard for CBRN air-purifying respirators. Our manufactured nanofibrous filters demonstrated submicron aerosol retention efficiency of > 99.999999%, which is four orders of magnitude better than the requirements of the CBRN standard. They also had a breathing resistance of ~ 26 mmH2O, which is more than twofold lower than the maximum allowable limit. Although the filter material from the gas mask cartridge currently in service with the U.S. military demonstrated a higher quality factor than electrospun filters, the comparative analysis of filter morphology suggested ways of improving nanofibrous filter performance by tuning nanofiber diameter distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yury Salkovskiy
- grid.266815.e0000 0001 0775 5412Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska at Omaha, 6160 University Drive South, Omaha, NE 68182 USA
| | - Aleksandr Fadeev
- grid.266815.e0000 0001 0775 5412Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska at Omaha, 6160 University Drive South, Omaha, NE 68182 USA
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11
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In situ preparation of silver nanoparticle embedded composite nanofibrous membrane: a multi-layered biocidal air filter. Polym Bull (Berl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00289-022-04561-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Zakrzewska A, Haghighat Bayan MA, Nakielski P, Petronella F, De Sio L, Pierini F. Nanotechnology Transition Roadmap toward Multifunctional Stimuli-Responsive Face Masks. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:46123-46144. [PMID: 36161869 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c10335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent times, the use of personal protective equipment, such as face masks or respirators, is becoming more and more critically important because of common pollution; furthermore, face masks have become a necessary element in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. For this reason, the main mission of scientists has become the development of face masks with exceptional properties that will enhance their performance. The versatility of electrospun polymer nanofibers has determined their suitability as a material for constructing "smart" filter media. This paper provides an overview of the research carried out on nanofibrous filters obtained by electrospinning. The progressive development of the next generation of face masks whose unique properties can be activated in response to a specific external stimulus is highlighted. Thanks to additional components incorporated into the fiber structure, filters can, for example, acquire antibacterial or antiviral properties, self-sterilize the structure, and store the energy generated by users. Despite the discovery of several fascinating possibilities, some of them remain unexplored. Stimuli-responsive filters have the potential to become products of large-scale availability and great importance to society as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zakrzewska
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5B, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
| | - Mohammad Ali Haghighat Bayan
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5B, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
| | - Paweł Nakielski
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5B, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
| | - Francesca Petronella
- Institute of Crystallography CNR-IC, National Research Council of Italy, Via Salaria Km 29.300, Monterotondo 00015, Rome Italy
| | - Luciano De Sio
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Research Center for Biophotonics, Sapienza University of Rome, Corso della Repubblica 79, Latina 04100, Italy
| | - Filippo Pierini
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5B, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
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Virucidal and Bactericidal Filtration Media from Electrospun Polylactic Acid Nanofibres Capable of Protecting against COVID-19. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:membranes12060571. [PMID: 35736278 PMCID: PMC9227935 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12060571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Electrospun nanofibres excel at air filtration owing to diverse filtration mechanisms, thereby outperforming meltblown fibres. In this work, we present an electrospun polylactide acid nanofibre filter media, FilterLayrTM Eco, displaying outstanding bactericidal and virucidal properties using Manuka oil. Given the existing COVID-19 pandemic, face masks are now a mandatory accessory in many countries, and at the same time, they have become a source of environmental pollution. Made by NanoLayr Ltd., FilterLayrTM Eco uses biobased renewable raw materials with products that have end-of-life options for being industrially compostable. Loaded with natural and non-toxic terpenoid from manuka oil, FilterLayr Eco can filter up to 99.9% of 0.1 µm particles and kill >99% of trapped airborne fungi, bacteria, and viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 (Delta variant). In addition, the antimicrobial activity, and the efficacy of the filter media to filtrate particles was shown to remain highly active following several washing cycles, making it a reusable and more environmentally friendly option. The new nanofibre filter media, FilterLayrTM Eco, met the particle filtration efficiency and breathability requirements of the following standards: N95 performance in accordance with NIOSH 42CFR84, level 2 performance in accordance with ASTM F2100, and level 2 filtration efficiency and level 1 breathability in accordance with ASTM F3502. These are globally recognized facemask and respirator standards.
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Thomberg T, Ramah P, Lust A, Nerut J, Koppel M, Romann T, Palm R, Månsson M, March NF, Junninen H, Külaviir M, Paiste P, Kirsimäe K, Punapart M, Viru L, Merits A, Lust E. Preparation of nanofibrous materials activated with metal clusters for active and long-lasting air filters. Sep Purif Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2022.120697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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