A face mask made of plant collagen can now kill bacteria and monitor your breathing while being completely biodegradable.
Standard plastic face masks protect against viruses but create a massive microplastic pollution problem when they are thrown away. This new Janus filter is made entirely from natural fibers that capture particles and kill germs on contact. It also features a built-in sensor that tracks the NO2 levels in your breath to detect signs of asthma or lung disease. Because it is made of plant material, the entire mask can be composted after use. This transforms a simple piece of safety gear into a high-tech diagnostic tool that leaves no trace in the environment.
Bioinspired Janus Air Filters: All-Natural Plant–Collagen Fibers with SnS2 Sensors for Microplastic Entrapment, Antimicrobial Defense, and Exhaled Gas Monitoring
SSRN · 6692091
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a dramatic surge in face mask usage, while worsening air pollution continues to pose persistent threats to human health. However, conventional masks rely primarily on physical filtration, inevitably release microplastics (MPs) during use and disposal, risk secondary pollution upon improper handling, and lack the capability for real-time monitoring of exhaled volatile biomarkers, which is essential for the noninvasive diagnosis of respiratory diseases. Herein, we