The recent launch of a novel antimicrobial and washable face mask, ‘NSafe’, by an IIT-Delhi start-up incidentally named ‘Nanosafe Solutions’ has made headlines. In the backdrop of a global pandemic, where masks have become essential for daily life, NSafe presents a reusable solution that significantly reduces both the cost of frequent purchases and the environmental impact of disposable masks. This ground-breaking product functions due to its triple-layered construction, offering comfort, antimicrobial action, and repellent behaviour towards water and oil.
Understanding the NSafe Mask
Developed by Nanosafe Solutions, the NSafe mask is not your regular, single-use face mask. Boasting of reusability for up to 50 washes, this product offers an economical alternative to the disposable masks commonly in use. It also addresses the growing environmental concern around the disposal of single-use masks. However, what truly sets the NSafe mask apart is its intricate three-tier design which ensures breathability, filtration efficiency, and splash resistance simultaneously.
Triple-Layered for Maximum Protection
The NSafe mask features three distinct layers, each serving a specific purpose to provide optimum protection. The innermost layer is hydrophilic in nature, allowing it to effectively absorb and retain moisture, thereby ensuring user comfort. This layer makes wearing the mask for extended periods more bearable even in humid conditions.
Sandwiched in the middle is the layer attributed with antimicrobial activity. This middle layer plays an instrumental role in assuring the primary function of the mask – filtration and prevention of bacterial entrance or escape. Hence, this layer acts as the frontline defence against potential disease-causing microbes.
The outermost layer has a unique characteristic of displaying water and oil repellent behaviour. Besides lending the mask a clean and dry exterior, this repellency also means enhanced durability of the mask.
Achieving High Performance
The NSafe mask is not just about the innovative design; it also delivers on performance. With a bacterial filtration efficiency of 99.2%, it stands as a strong protective barrier against airborne bacteria. Even though it provides such high filtration efficiency, the mask does not compromise on breathability. Users can comfortably wear the mask for long durations without feeling suffocated or uncomfortable.
Moreover, the mask is splash-resistant, adding another layer of protection for the users. This characteristic prevents droplets, which could potentially contain harmful microbes, from sticking to the outer layer of the mask.
Beyond Just Protection
While the primary role of the NSafe mask is to provide protection against harmful microbes, it also contributes to solving an environmental issue. The widespread use of single-use masks during the ongoing pandemic has led to an escalation in bio-medical waste. The NSafe mask, with its reusable nature, offers a solution to this waste disposal issue, making it a more environment-friendly option.
In summary, the NSafe mask presents a comprehensive solution to many issues posed by the conventional single-use masks. Through its combination of comfort, high protective efficiency, and reusability, it sets a new precedent in the market for face masks.
