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Lima FDA, Chagas PAM, Honorato ACS, da Silva EN, Aguiar ML, Guerra VG. Multifactorial evaluation of an ultra-fast process for electrospinning of recycled expanded polystyrene to manufacture high-efficiency membranes for nanoparticle air filtration. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 362:121352. [PMID: 38833930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The increased production of polystyrene waste has led to the need to find efficient ways to dispose of it. One possibility is the use of solid waste to produce filter media by the electrospinning technique. The aim of this work was to develop an ultra-fast electrospinning process applied to recycled polystyrene, with statistical evaluation of the influence of polymeric solution parameters (polymer concentration and percentage of DL-limonene) and process variables (flow rate, voltage, and type of support) on nanoparticle collection efficiency, air permeability, and fiber diameter. An extensive characterization of the materials and evaluation of the morphology of the fibers was also carried out. It was found that recycled expanded polystyrene could be used in electrospinning to produce polymeric membranes. The optimized condition that resulted in the highest nanoparticle collection efficiency was a polymer concentration of 13.5%, percentage of DL-limonene of 50%, voltage of 25 kV, and flow rate of 1.2 mL/h, resulting in values of 99.97 ± 0.01%, 2.6 ± 0.5 × 10-13 m2, 0.19 Pa-1, and 708 ± 176 nm for the collection efficiency of nanoparticles in the range from 6.38 to 232.9 nm, permeability, quality factor, and mean fiber diameter, respectively. All the parameters were found to influence collection efficiency and fiber diameter. The use of DL-limonene, a natural solvent, provided benefits including increased collection efficiency and decreased fiber size. In addition, the electrostatic filtration mechanism was evaluated using the presence of a copper grid as a support for the nanofibers. The findings demonstrated that an electrospinning time of only 5 min was sufficient to obtain filters with high collection efficiencies and low pressure drops, opening perspectives for the application of polystyrene waste in the development of materials with excellent characteristics for application in the area of atmospheric pollution mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe de Aquino Lima
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, Km 235, C.P. 676, CEP, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo Augusto Marques Chagas
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, Km 235, C.P. 676, CEP, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Sguizzato Honorato
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, Km 235, C.P. 676, CEP, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Edilton Nunes da Silva
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, Km 235, C.P. 676, CEP, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Mônica Lopes Aguiar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, Km 235, C.P. 676, CEP, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Vádila Giovana Guerra
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, Km 235, C.P. 676, CEP, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
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Emam MH, Elezaby RS, Swidan SA, Hathout RM. Nanofiberous facemasks as protectives against pandemic respiratory viruses. Expert Rev Respir Med 2024; 18:127-143. [PMID: 38753449 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2024.2356601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Wearing protective face masks and respirators has been a necessity to reduce the transmission rate of respiratory viruses since the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) disease. Nevertheless, the outbreak has revealed the need to develop efficient air filter materials and innovative anti-microbial protectives. Nanofibrous facemasks, either loaded with antiviral nanoparticles or not, are very promising personal protective equipment (PPE) against pandemic respiratory viruses. AREAS COVERED In this review, multiple types of face masks and respirators are discussed as well as filtration mechanisms of particulates. In this regard, the limitations of traditional face masks were summarized and the advancement of nanotechnology in developing nanofibrous masks and air filters was discussed. Different methods of preparing nanofibers were explained. The various approaches used for enhancing nanofibrous face masks were covered. EXPERT OPINION Although wearing conventional face masks can limit viral infection spread to some extent, the world is in great need for more protective face masks. Nanofibers can block viral particles efficiently and can be incorporated into face masks in order to enhance their filtration efficiency. Also, we believe that other modifications such as addition of antiviral nanoparticles can significantly increase the protection power of facemasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merna H Emam
- Nanotechnology Research Center (NTRC), The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Reham S Elezaby
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Shady A Swidan
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
- The Centre for Drug Research and Development (CDRD), Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rania M Hathout
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Stramarkou M, Tzegiannakis I, Christoforidi E, Krokida M. Use of Electrospinning for Sustainable Production of Nanofibers: A Comparative Assessment of Smart Textiles-Related Applications. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:514. [PMID: 38399892 PMCID: PMC10893451 DOI: 10.3390/polym16040514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Textile production is a major component of the global industry, with sales of over USD 450 billion and estimations of an 84% increase in their demand in the next 20 years. In recent decades, protective and smart textiles have played important roles in the social economy and attracted widespread popularity thanks to their wide spectrum of applications with properties, such as antimicrobial, water-repellent, UV, chemical, and thermal protection. Towards the sustainable manufacturing of smart textiles, biodegradable, recycled, and bio-based plastics are used as alternative raw materials for fabric and yarn production using a wide variety of techniques. While conventional techniques present several drawbacks, nanofibers produced through electrospinning have superior structural properties. Electrospinning is an innovative method for fiber production based on the use of electrostatic force to create charged threads of polymer solutions. Electrospinning shows great potential since it provides control of the size, porosity, and mechanical resistance of the fibers. This review summarizes the advances in the rapidly evolving field of the production of nanofibers for application in smart and protective textiles using electrospinning and environmentally friendly polymers as raw materials, and provides research directions for optimized smart fibers in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Stramarkou
- Laboratory of Process Analysis and Design, School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 9 Iroon Polytechneiou St. Zografou Campus, 15780 Athens, Greece; (I.T.); (E.C.); (M.K.)
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Sepahvand S, Kargarzadeh H, Jonoobi M, Ashori A, Ismaeilimoghadam S, Varghese RT, Chirayl CJ, Azimi B, Danti S. Recent developments in nanocellulose-based aerogels as air filters: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 246:125721. [PMID: 37419257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Today, one of the world's critical environmental issues is air pollution, which is the most important parameter threatening human health and the environment. Synthetic polymers are widely used in industrial air filter production; however, they are incompatible with the environment due to their secondary pollution. Using renewable materials to manufacture air filters is not only environmentally friendly but also essential. Recently, a new generation of biopolymers called cellulose nanofiber (CNF)-based hydrogels have been proposed, with three dimensional (3D) nanofiber networks and unique physical and mechanical properties. CNFs have become a hot research topic for application as air filter materials because they can compete with synthetic nanofibers due to their advantages, such as abundant, renewable, nontoxic, high specific surface area, high reactivity, flexibility, low cost, low density, and network structure formation. The main focus of the current review is the recent progress in the preparation and employment of nanocellulose materials, especially CNF-based hydrogels, to absorb PM and CO2. This study summarizes the preparation methods, modification strategies, fabrications, and further applications of CNF-based aerogels as air filters. Lastly, challenges in the fabrication of CNFs, and trends for future developments are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sima Sepahvand
- Department of Bio Systems, Faculty of New Technologies and Aerospace Engineering, Zirab Campus, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hanieh Kargarzadeh
- Center of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363, Poland
| | - Mehdi Jonoobi
- Department of Wood and Paper Science and Technology, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.
| | - Alireza Ashori
- Department of Chemical Technologies, Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeed Ismaeilimoghadam
- Department of Wood and Paper Science and Technology, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Rini Thresia Varghese
- Department of Chemistry, Newman College, Thodupuzha, Kerala 685584, India; School of Chemical Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala 686560, India
| | | | - Bahareh Azimi
- Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Serena Danti
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, 56122 Pisa, Italy
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5
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Nithya R, Thirunavukkarasu A, Hemavathy RV, Sivashankar R, Kishore KA, Sabarish R. Functionalized nanofibers in gas sorption process: a critical review on the challenges and prospective research. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:969. [PMID: 37466735 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11491-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution has become the most important environmental and human health threat as it is accounting for about 7 million deaths across the globe every year. Particulate matter (PM) derived from the combustion of fossil fuels, biomass, and other agricultural residues pollutes the atmospheric air which affects the quality of the environment and poses a great threat to human health. Ecological imbalance, climatic variation, and cardiovascular and respiratory problems among humans are significant extortions due to PM pollution. Scientific approaches were initiated to limit the levels of PM in the atmospheric air and the use of nanofiber mats has received wide attention as these possess versatile properties including nanoscale-sized pore structure, homogeneity in their size distribution with high specific surface area, and low basis weight. To exploit their filtration potential towards wide classes of pollutants and also to enhance the capturing efficacy, functionalized nanofibers are currently in practice with tailor-made modifications on the surface. The present review provides a comprehensive report on the different fabrication processes of functionalized nanofibers along with the controlling factors affecting the efficacy of the gas separation process. Also, it provides technical insights on the mass transfer aspects of PM filtration by elucidation their mechanism which can provide vital information on the rate-controlling diffusive flux(es). Conclusively, the practical challenges encountered in the large-scale air filtration systems such as filter cleaning, flow-rate regulation, pressure drop, and extent of reusability are discussed, and the review has identified potential gaps in the current research and can be considered for the prospective research in the area of PM separation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajarathinam Nithya
- Department of Industrial Biotechnology, Government College of Technology, Coimbatore, India
| | | | - R V Hemavathy
- Department of Biotechnology, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai, India
| | - Raja Sivashankar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Warangal, India
| | - Kola Anand Kishore
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Warangal, India
| | - Radoor Sabarish
- Department of Materials and Production engineering, King Mongkut's University of Technology, North Bangkok, Thailand
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Ostheller ME, Balakrishnan NK, Beukenberg K, Groten R, Seide G. Pilot-Scale Melt Electrospinning of Polybutylene Succinate Fiber Mats for a Biobased and Biodegradable Face Mask. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2936. [PMID: 37447581 DOI: 10.3390/polym15132936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a huge demand for disposable facemasks. Billions were manufactured from nonbiodegradable petroleum-derived polymers, and many were discarded in the environment where they contributed to plastic pollution. There is an urgent need for biobased and biodegradable facemasks to avoid environmental harm during future disease outbreaks. Melt electrospinning is a promising alternative technique for the manufacturing of filter layers using sub-microfibers prepared from biobased raw materials such as polybutylene succinate (PBS). However, it is not yet possible to produce sub-micrometer PBS fibers or uniform nonwoven-like samples at the pilot scale, which hinders their investigation as filter layers. Further optimization of pilot-scale PBS melt electrospinning is therefore required. Here, we tested the effect of different parameters such as electric field strength, nozzle-to-collector distance and throughput on the final fiber diameter and sample uniformity during PBS melt electrospinning on a pilot-scale device. We also studied the effect of a climate chamber and an additional infrared heater on the solidification of PBS fibers and their final diameter and uniformity. In addition, a post-processing step, including a hot air stream of 90 °C for 30 s has been studied and successfully lead to a nonwoven-like structure including filaments that weld together without changing their structure. The finest fibers (1.7 µm in diameter) were produced at an applied electric field strength of -40 kV, a nozzle-to-collector distance of 5.5 cm, and a spin pump speed of 2 rpm. Three uniform nonwoven-like samples were tested as filter layers in a medical face mask by measuring their ability to prevent the transfer of bacteria, but the pore size was too large for effective retention. Our results provide insight into the process parameters influencing the suitability of melt-electrospun nonwoven-like samples as biobased and biodegradable filter materials and offer guidance for further process optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike-Elisa Ostheller
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials (AMIBM), Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Naveen Kumar Balakrishnan
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials e.V. (AMIBM e.V.), Lutherweg 2, 52068 Aachen, Germany
| | - Konrad Beukenberg
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials e.V. (AMIBM e.V.), Lutherweg 2, 52068 Aachen, Germany
| | - Robert Groten
- Department of Textile and Clothing Technology, Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences, Campus Moenchengladbach, Webschulstrasse 31, 41065 Moenchengladbach, Germany
| | - Gunnar Seide
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials (AMIBM), Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
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7
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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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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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Systematic Review of the Key Factors Influencing the Indoor Airborne Spread of SARS-CoV-2. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030382. [PMID: 36986304 PMCID: PMC10053454 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic due to the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been plaguing the world since late 2019/early 2020 and has changed the way we function as a society, halting both economic and social activities worldwide. Classrooms, offices, restaurants, public transport, and other enclosed spaces that typically gather large groups of people indoors, and are considered focal points for the spread of the virus. For society to be able to go “back to normal”, it is crucial to keep these places open and functioning. An understanding of the transmission modes occurring in these contexts is essential to set up effective infection control strategies. This understanding was made using a systematic review, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. We analyze the different parameters influencing airborne transmission indoors, the mathematical models proposed to understand it, and discuss how we can act on these parameters. Methods to judge infection risks through the analysis of the indoor air quality are described. Various mitigation measures are listed, and their efficiency, feasibility, and acceptability are ranked by a panel of experts in the field. Thus, effective ventilation procedures controlled by CO2-monitoring, continued mask wearing, and a strategic control of room occupancy, among other measures, are put forth to enable a safe return to these essential places.
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Sukhavattanakul P, Pisitsak P, Ummartyotin S, Narain R. Polysaccharides for Medical Technology: Properties and Applications. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2200372. [PMID: 36353915 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202200372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, the use of polysaccharides has gained tremendous attention in the field of medical technology. They have been applied in various sectors such as tissue engineering, drug delivery system, face mask, and bio-sensing. This review article provides an overview and background of polysaccharides for biomedical uses. Different types of polysaccharides, for example, cellulose and its derivatives, chitin and chitosan, hyaluronic acid, alginate, and pectin are presented. They are fabricated in various forms such as hydrogels, nanoparticles, membranes, and as porous mediums. Successful development and improvement of polysaccharide-based materials will effectively help users to enhance their quality of personal health, decrease cost, and eventually increase the quality of life with respect to sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pongpat Sukhavattanakul
- Department of Materials and Textile Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Thammasat University, Pathum, Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Penwisa Pisitsak
- Department of Materials and Textile Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Thammasat University, Pathum, Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Sarute Ummartyotin
- Department of Materials and Textile Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Thammasat University, Pathum, Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Ravin Narain
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G1H9, Canada
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de Almeida DS, Scacchetti FAP, Santos R, Aguiar ML, Beal A, Rudke AP, Santana MHDS, Lisboa AMV, Bezerra FM, Martins LD. Evaluation of biocidal properties of biodegradable nanofiber filters and their use in face masks. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2023; 44:686-694. [PMID: 34524952 DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2021.1982020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Due to the recent coronavirus-2019 pandemic, several studies have emerged looking for new materials, especially with biocidal characteristics. Thus, the present research investigates the antibacterial properties of biodegradable cellulose acetate (CA) / cetylpyridinium bromide (CPB) electrospun nanofibers, their aerosol filtration, and the possible use as a filter media of surgical face masks. Then, samples of these nanofibers were produced over a nonwoven substrate, using different volumes of polymeric solution during the electrospinning process. The evaluation of the antibacterial properties of the nanofibers was performed for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus using quantitative methods. The aerosol filtration performance was evaluated in these samples for NaCl nanoparticles (from 7-300 nm) and with 8 mL min-1 of air flow rate. The results show that the single use of the surfactant has antibacterial properties from a concentration of 39 µg mL-1 of solution. The nanofibers presented a reduction of 100% for both bacteria. Air filtration tests showed 126.03 and 207.73 Pa cm-² of pressure drops and 63 and 77% of aerosol filtration efficiency (FE) for samples with 0.13 and 0.15 mL, respectively. Regarding the nanofiber produced with 0.35 mL, the value obtained was 115.13 ± 33.64 Pa cm-2 and 3.15% of particle penetration. These breathability values are higher than those required for the surgical face mask standard, indicating that improvements in the porosity and thickness are necessary to meet the Brazilian requirements. However, the nanofibers could be applied as filter media for indoor air conditioning systems due to their FE and biocidal properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela S de Almeida
- Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
- Federal University of Technology - Paraná, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Roberta Santos
- Federal University of Technology - Paraná, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Alexandra Beal
- Federal University of Technology - Paraná, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Leila D Martins
- Federal University of Technology - Paraná, Londrina, PR, Brazil
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12
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Meghana MC, Nandhini C, Benny L, George L, Varghese A. A road map on synthetic strategies and applications of biodegradable polymers. Polym Bull (Berl) 2022; 80:1-50. [PMID: 36530484 PMCID: PMC9735231 DOI: 10.1007/s00289-022-04565-9] [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: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Biodegradable polymers have emerged as fascinating materials due to their non-toxicity, environmentally benign nature and good mechanical strength. The toxic effects of non-biodegradable plastics paved way for the development of sustainable and biodegradable polymers. The engineering of biodegradable polymers employing various strategies like radical ring opening polymerization, enzymatic ring opening polymerization, anionic ring opening polymerization, photo-initiated radical polymerization, chemoenzymatic method, enzymatic polymerization, ring opening polymerization and coordinative ring opening polymerization have been discussed in this review. The application of biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles in the biomedical field and cosmetic industry is considered to be an emerging field of interest. However, this review mainly highlights the applications of selected biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid, poly(ε-caprolactone), polyethylene glycol, polyhydroxyalkanoates, poly(lactide-co-glycolide) and polytrimethyl carbonate in various fields like agriculture, biomedical, biosensing, food packaging, automobiles, wastewater treatment, textile and hygiene, cosmetics and electronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. C. Meghana
- Department of Chemistry, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Hosur Road, Bengaluru, 560029 India
| | - C. Nandhini
- Department of Chemistry, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Hosur Road, Bengaluru, 560029 India
| | - Libina Benny
- Department of Chemistry, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Hosur Road, Bengaluru, 560029 India
| | - Louis George
- Department of Chemistry, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Hosur Road, Bengaluru, 560029 India
| | - Anitha Varghese
- Department of Chemistry, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Hosur Road, Bengaluru, 560029 India
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13
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Bian Y, Zhang C, Wang H, Cao Q. Degradable Nanofiber for Eco-friendly Air Filtration: Progress and Perspectives. Sep Purif Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2022.122642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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14
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Cheng P, Espano J, Harkaway A, Naclerio AE, Moehring NK, Braeuninger-Weimer P, Kidambi PR. Nanoporous Atomically Thin Graphene Filters for Nanoscale Aerosols. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:41328-41336. [PMID: 36036893 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c10827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Filtering nanoparticulate aerosols from air streams is important for a wide range of personal protection equipment (PPE), including masks used for medical research, healthcare, law enforcement, first responders, and military applications. Conventional PPEs capable of filtering nanoparticles <300 nm are typically bulky and sacrifice breathability to maximize protection from exposure to harmful nanoparticulate aerosols including viruses ∼20-300 nm from air streams. Here, we show that nanopores introduced into centimeter-scale monolayer graphene supported on polycarbonate track-etched supports via a facile oxygen plasma etch can allow for filtration of aerosolized SiO2 nanoparticles of ∼5-20 nm from air steams while maintaining air permeance of ∼2.28-7.1 × 10-5 mol m-2 s-1 Pa-1. Furthermore, a systematic increase in oxygen plasma etch time allows for a tunable size-selective filtration of aerosolized nanoparticles. We demonstrate a new route to realize ultra-compact, lightweight, and conformal form-factor filters capable of blocking sub-20 nm aerosolized nanoparticles with particular relevance for biological/viral threat mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peifu Cheng
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | - Jeremy Espano
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program for Material Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | - Andrew Harkaway
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | - Andrew E Naclerio
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | - Nicole K Moehring
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program for Material Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | | | - Piran R Kidambi
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
- Vanderbilt Institute of Nanoscale Sciences and Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
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15
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Shen H, Han M, Shen Y, Shuai D. Electrospun Nanofibrous Membranes for Controlling Airborne Viruses: Present Status, Standardization of Aerosol Filtration Tests, and Future Development. ACS ENVIRONMENTAL AU 2022; 2:290-309. [PMID: 35928556 PMCID: PMC9342653 DOI: 10.1021/acsenvironau.1c00047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The global COVID-19 pandemic has raised great public concern about the airborne transmission of viral pathogens. Virus-laden aerosols with small size could be suspended in the air for a long duration and remain infectious. Among a series of measures implemented to mitigate the airborne spread of infectious diseases, filtration by face masks, respirators, and air filters is a potent nonpharmacologic intervention. Compared with conventional air filtration media, nanofibrous membranes fabricated via electrospinning are promising candidates for controlling airborne viruses due to their desired characteristics, i.e., a reduced pore size (submicrometers to several micrometers), a larger specific surface area and porosity, and retained surface and volume charges. So far, a wide variety of electrospun nanofibrous membranes have been developed for aerosol filtration, and they have shown excellent filtration performance. However, current studies using electrospinning for controlling airborne viruses vary significantly in the practice of aerosol filtration tests, including setup configurations and operations. The discrepancy among various studies makes it difficult, if not impossible, to compare filtration performance. Therefore, there is a pressing need to establish a standardized protocol for evaluating the electrospun nanofibrous membranes' performance for removing viral aerosols. In this perspective, we first reviewed the properties and performance of diverse filter media, including electrospun nanofibrous membranes, for removing viral aerosols. Next, aerosol filtration protocols for electrospun nanofibrous membranes were discussed with respect to the aerosol generation, filtration, collection, and detection. Thereafter, standardizing the aerosol filtration test system for electrospun nanofibrous membranes was proposed. In the end, the future advancement of electrospun nanofibrous membranes for enhanced air filtration was discussed. This perspective provides a comprehensive understanding of status and challenges of electrospinning for air filtration, and it sheds light on future nanomaterial and protocol development for controlling airborne viruses, preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongchen Shen
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, United States
| | - Minghao Han
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Yun Shen
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Danmeng Shuai
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, United States
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16
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Kakoria A, Sinha-Ray S. Ultrafine nanofiber-based high efficiency air filter from waste cigarette butts. POLYMER 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2022.125121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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17
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Matei E, Predescu AM, Râpă M, Țurcanu AA, Mateș I, Constantin N, Predescu C. Natural Polymers and Their Nanocomposites Used for Environmental Applications. NANOMATERIALS 2022; 12:nano12101707. [PMID: 35630932 PMCID: PMC9146209 DOI: 10.3390/nano12101707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this review is to bring together the main natural polymer applications for environmental remediation, as a class of nexus materials with advanced properties that offer the opportunity of integration in single or simultaneous decontamination processes. By identifying the main natural polymers derived from agro-industrial sources or monomers converted by biotechnology into sustainable polymers, the paper offers the main performances identified in the literature for: (i) the treatment of water contaminated with heavy metals and emerging pollutants such as dyes and organics, (ii) the decontamination and remediation of soils, and (iii) the reduction in the number of suspended solids of a particulate matter (PM) type in the atmosphere. Because nanotechnology offers new horizons in materials science, nanocomposite tunable polymers are also studied and presented as promising materials in the context of developing sustainable and integrated products in society to ensure quality of life. As a class of future smart materials, the natural polymers and their nanocomposites are obtained from renewable resources, which are inexpensive materials with high surface area, porosity, and high adsorption properties due to their various functional groups. The information gathered in this review paper is based on the publications in the field from the last two decades. The future perspectives of these fascinating materials should take into account the scale-up, the toxicity of nanoparticles, and the competition with food production, as well as the environmental regulations.
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18
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Air pollution control for indoor environments using nanofiber filters: a brief review and post-pandemic perspectives. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL ADVANCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceja.2022.100330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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19
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Naragund VS, Panda PK. Electrospun nanofiber-based respiratory face masks-a review. EMERGENT MATERIALS 2022; 5:261-278. [PMID: 35098033 PMCID: PMC8788396 DOI: 10.1007/s42247-022-00350-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic of 2019 forced widespread use of face coverings as a mandatory step towards reducing infection by the virus. The face mask acts as a barrier for transmission of infected aerosols among its user and surrounding people. This has propelled pace of research and development of face masks around the world. This short review is an effort to present advances in materials and designs used for face masks. Details available in scientific literature and company brochures have been accessed and the use of nanomaterials and designs for the new generation of face masks have been discussed. Special attention was given to the face masks based on electrospun nanofiber-based membrane materials due to their nano-sized pores, light weight, and high filtration efficiency; therefore, they are commercially viable and popular among various products available in the market. Incorporation of metal organic framework (MOFs) and graphene have opened avenues to more advanced/multi-functional, reusable, and high capacity adsorption filtration membranes. Rapid prototyping/3-dimensional (3-D) printing techniques have been applied to shorten the time of manufacture of face masks. This review is expected to be very helpful for engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs working on development of novel face masks required in plenty during this pandemic period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veereshgouda S. Naragund
- Materials Science Division, CSIR – National Aerospace Laboratories, HAL Old Airport Road, Kodihalli, Bengaluru, 560017 India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002 India
| | - P. K. Panda
- Materials Science Division, CSIR – National Aerospace Laboratories, HAL Old Airport Road, Kodihalli, Bengaluru, 560017 India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002 India
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20
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Tavares JL, Cavalcanti IDL, Santos Magalhães NS, Lira Nogueira MCDB. Nanotechnology and COVID-19: quo vadis?. JOURNAL OF NANOPARTICLE RESEARCH : AN INTERDISCIPLINARY FORUM FOR NANOSCALE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2022; 24:62. [PMID: 35283662 PMCID: PMC8901091 DOI: 10.1007/s11051-022-05452-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The pandemic COVID-19 has worried everyone due to the high mortality rate and the high number of people hospitalized with severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by SARS-CoV-2. Given the seriousness of this disease, several companies and research institutions have sought alternative treatment and/or prevention methods for COVID-19. Due to its versatility, nanotechnology has allowed the development of protective equipment and vaccines to prevent the disease and reduce the number of severe COVID-19 cases. Thus, this article combined the main works and products developed in a nanotechnological field for COVID-19. We performed a literature search using the keywords "COVID-19," "SARS-CoV-2," "nanoparticles," "nanotechnology," and "liposomes" in the SciELO, Scifinder, PubMed, Sciencedirect, ClinicalTrials, and Nanotechnology Products databases Database. The data survey indicated 48 articles, 62 products, and 32 patents. The use of nanotechnology against COVID-19 has brought benefits in several parameters of this disease, helping develop rapid diagnostic tests that release the result in 10 min, as well as developing vaccines containing genetic material from SARS-CoV-2 (DNA, mRNA, and protein subunits). Nanotechnology is an exceptional ally against COVID-19, contributing to the most diverse areas, helping both prevent, diagnose, and treat COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lima Tavares
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo-Asami (LIKA), Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE 123550670-901 Brazil
- Laboratório de Nanotecnologia, Biotecnologia e Cultura de Células, Centro Acadêmico de Vitória, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (CAV/UFPE), Recife, Brazil
| | - Iago Dillion Lima Cavalcanti
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo-Asami (LIKA), Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE 123550670-901 Brazil
- Laboratório de Nanotecnologia, Biotecnologia e Cultura de Células, Centro Acadêmico de Vitória, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (CAV/UFPE), Recife, Brazil
| | - Nereide Stela Santos Magalhães
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo-Asami (LIKA), Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE 123550670-901 Brazil
| | - Mariane Cajubá de Britto Lira Nogueira
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo-Asami (LIKA), Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE 123550670-901 Brazil
- Laboratório de Nanotecnologia, Biotecnologia e Cultura de Células, Centro Acadêmico de Vitória, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (CAV/UFPE), Recife, Brazil
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21
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Deng Y, Lu T, Cui J, Keshari Samal S, Xiong R, Huang C. Bio-based electrospun nanofiber as building blocks for a novel eco-friendly air filtration membrane: A review. Sep Purif Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2021.119623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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22
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Babaahmadi V, Amid H, Naeimirad M, Ramakrishna S. Biodegradable and multifunctional surgical face masks: A brief review on demands during COVID-19 pandemic, recent developments, and future perspectives. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 798:149233. [PMID: 34329934 PMCID: PMC8302485 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Providing the greater public with the current coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines is time-consuming and research-intensive; intermediately, some essential ways to reduce the transmission include social distancing, personal hygiene, testing, contact tracing, and universal masking. The data suggests that universal masking, especially using multilayer surgical face masks, offers a powerful efficacy for indoor places. These layers have different functions including antiviral/antibacterial, fluid barrier, particulate and bacterial filtration, and fit and comfort. However, universal masking poses a serious environmental threat since billions of them are disposed on a daily basis; the current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has put such demands and consequences in perspective. This review focuses on surgical face mask structures and classifications, their impact on our environment, some of their desirable functionalities, and the recent developments around their biodegradability. The authors believe that this review provides an insight into the fabrication and deployment of effective surgical face masks, and it discusses the utilization of multifunctional structures along with biodegradable materials to deal with future demands in a more eco-friendly fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Babaahmadi
- Department of Materials and Textile Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Razi University, Kermanshah 6714414971, Iran.
| | - Hooman Amid
- Saint-Gobain Inc., Research and Development Supervisor, Nonwoven Abrasives, McAllen, TX 78503, United States of America
| | - Mohammadreza Naeimirad
- Department of Materials and Textile Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Razi University, Kermanshah 6714414971, Iran
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Centre for Nanofibers and Nanotechnology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117575, Singapore
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23
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Zhong C, Xiong X. Preparation of a composite coating film via vapor induced phase separation for air purification and real-time bacteria photocatalytic inactivation. PROGRESS IN ORGANIC COATINGS 2021; 161:106486. [PMID: 34511697 PMCID: PMC8415738 DOI: 10.1016/j.porgcoat.2021.106486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases resulted from transmitting of bacteria or virus like COVID-19 via air-borne droplets have brought severe threat to human beings worldwide. Cutting the spreading paths to obtain clean air is one of the promising strategies to prevent people from such dangerous diseases. In this work, we have employed a strategy of spray coating in combination with vapor induced phase separation to prepare a composite coating film to fulfill that purpose. A stable mixture suspension containing micelles of block copolymer of poly(styrene-block-butadiene-block-styrene) and TiO2 nanoparticles was sprayed onto stainless steel mesh to evaporate solvent in non-solvent vapor atmospheres. A water vapor atmosphere and an ethanol vapor atmosphere were in turn employed to improve the mechanical strength of the obtained coating film. The porous microstructure, the porosity, and the superhydrophobicity of the coating film were carefully characterized and analyzed. The air pressure-drop of the coating film was determined to be lower than 100 Pa, indicating a high air permeability. Moreover, a foggy air containing E. coli was pressed through the coating film via a home-made apparatus to simulate the air purification system, where E. coli contained air-borne droplets were intercepted by the film matrix in a physical manner, and the bacteria was photocatalytically inactivated at the meantime. A filtration efficiency of 99.7% and a 99.6% efficiency of real-time photocatalytic inactivation of E. coli demonstrate the promising potential of the coating film.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengtang Zhong
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Xiaopeng Xiong
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
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24
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Escribá A, Thome Da Silva BAT, Lourenço SA, Cava CE. Incorporation of nanomaterials on the electrospun membrane process with potential use in water treatment. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2021.126775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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25
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Application of Low-Cost Sensors for Building Monitoring: A Systematic Literature Review. BUILDINGS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/buildings11080336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, many scholars have dedicated their research to the development of low-cost sensors for monitoring of various parameters. Despite their high number of applications, the state of the art related to low-cost sensors in building monitoring has not been addressed. To fill this gap, this article presents a systematic review, following well-established methodology, to analyze the state of the art in two aspects of structural and indoor parameters of buildings, in the SCOPUS database. This analysis allows to illustrate the potential uses of low-cost sensors in the building sector and addresses the scholars the preferred communication protocols and the most common microcontrollers for installation of low-cost monitoring systems. In addition, special attention is paid to describe different areas of the two mentioned fields of building monitoring and the most crucial parameters to be monitored in buildings. Finally, the deficiencies in line with limited number of studies carried out in various fields of building monitoring are overviewed and a series of parameters that ought to be studied in the future are proposed.
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26
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Mamun A, Blachowicz T, Sabantina L. Electrospun Nanofiber Mats for Filtering Applications-Technology, Structure and Materials. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:1368. [PMID: 33922156 PMCID: PMC8122750 DOI: 10.3390/polym13091368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Air pollution is one of the biggest health and environmental problems in the world and a huge threat to human health on a global scale. Due to the great impact of respiratory viral infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, lung disease, and heart disease, respiratory allergies are increasing significantly every year. Because of the special properties of electrospun nanofiber mats, e.g., large surface-to-volume ratio and low basis weight, uniform size, and nanoporous structure, nanofiber mats are the preferred choice for use in large-scale air filtration applications. In this review, we summarize the significant studies on electrospun nanofiber mats for filtration applications, present the electrospinning technology, show the structure and mechanism of air filtration. In addition, an overview of current air filtration materials derived from bio- and synthetic polymers and blends is provided. Apart from this, the use of biopolymers in filtration applications is still relatively new and this field is still under-researched. The application areas of air filtration materials are discussed here and future prospects are summarized in conclusion. In order to develop new effective filtration materials, it is necessary to understand the interaction between technology, materials, and filtration mechanisms, and this study was intended to contribute to this effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Al Mamun
- Junior Research Group “Nanomaterials”, Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany;
| | - Tomasz Blachowicz
- Institute of Physics-CSE, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
| | - Lilia Sabantina
- Junior Research Group “Nanomaterials”, Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany;
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27
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Development of Filter Media by Electrospinning for Air Filtration of Nanoparticles from PET Bottles. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:membranes11040293. [PMID: 33921575 PMCID: PMC8073527 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11040293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Air pollution and solid pollution are considered global problems, and endanger human health mainly due to the emission of fine particulate matter released into the atmosphere and improper disposal of post-consumer plastic bottles. Therefore, it is urgent to develop filter media to effectively protect the public. The properties of plastics make them potential candidates for nanofiber mat formers due to their attractive structural and mechanical characteristics. This work aims to produce and evaluate novel PET electrospun fibers dispensed with the use of support materials to be used as filter media to remove nanoparticles from the air. The electrospinning process was carried out by changing the concentration of the polymer solution, the needle diameter, and the electrospinning processing time at two rotation speeds. The average diameters of the micro- and nanofibers of the filter media produced ranged from 3.25 μm to 0.65 μm and it was possible to conclude that, as the size of the fibers decreased, the mechanical strength increased from 3.2 to 4.5 MPa. In filtration tests, a collection efficiency of up to 99% with low-pressure drops (19.4 Pa) was obtained for nanoparticles, demonstrating high quality factor filter media, which could be applicable in gas filtration.
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28
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Wang PL, Roschli A, Paranthaman MP, Theodore M, Cramer CL, Zangmeister C, Zhang Y, Urban JJ, Love L. Recent developments in filtration media and respirator technology in response to COVID-19. MRS BULLETIN 2021; 46:822-831. [PMID: 34539059 PMCID: PMC8442655 DOI: 10.1557/s43577-021-00173-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a surge in demand for N95 or equivalent respirators that the global supply chain was unable to satisfy. This shortage in critical equipment has inspired research that addresses the immediate problems and has accelerated the development of the next-generation filtration media and respirators. This article provides a brief review of the most recent work with regard to face respirators and filtration media. We discuss filtration efficiency of the widely utilized cloth masks. Next, the sterilization of and reuse of existing N95 respirators to extend the existing stockpile is discussed. To expand near-term supplies, optimization of current manufacturing methods, such as melt-blown processes and electrospinning, has been explored. Future manufacturing methods have been investigated to address long-term supply shortages. Novel materials with antiviral and sterilizable properties with the ability for multiple reuses have been developed and will contribute to the development of the next generation of longer lasting multi-use N95 respirators. Finally, additively manufactured respirators are reviewed, which enable a rapidly deployable source of reusable respirators that can use any filtration fabric.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex Roschli
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lonnie Love
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN USA
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