Masks are the best personal weapon to fight the COVID-19 pandemic but researchers have revealed that disposable masks accumulate high levels of pollutant within their plastic fibres.
Pollutants and nanoplastics found in disposable face masks, according to Swansea University study
Swansea University researchers raised concerns about the environmental and potential health impacts of the masks
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Scientists have uncovered potentially dangerous chemical pollutants that are released from disposable face masks when submerged in water. The research by Swansea University reveals high levels of pollutants - including lead, antimony, and copper - within the silicon-based and plastic fibres of common disposable face masks.
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IMAGE: Microscope image of microfibres released from children s mask: the colourful fibres are from the cartoon patterns view more
Credit: Swansea University
Swansea University scientists have uncovered potentially dangerous chemical pollutants that are released from disposable face masks when submerged in water.
The research reveals high levels of pollutants, including lead, antimony, and copper, within the silicon-based and plastic fibres of common disposable face masks.
The work is supported by the Institute for Innovative Materials, Processing and Numerical Technologies (IMPACT) and the SPECIFIC Innovation & Knowledge Centre
Project lead Dr Sarper Sarp of Swansea University College of Engineering said: All of us need to keep wearing masks as they are essential in ending the pandemic. But we also urgently need more research and regulation on mask production, so we can reduce any risks to the environment and human health .
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