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BEIJING: In evaluating the effectiveness of different types of face masks in preventing the spread of Covid-19, the researchers found that neck gaiters perform worse, while N95 respirators, surgical masks, and homemade cloth masks are better options, according to a recent study published in the scientific journal. Scientific advances.
The mandatory use of face masks in public places has been in force in many countries to contain the Covid-19 pandemic. However, due to a global shortage of mask supplies, many have to choose homemade masks or mask alternatives for personal protection.
Researchers at Duke University conducted experiments to verify how different masks work to reduce the transmission of respiratory droplets during regular speech.
In the experiments, a laser beam was placed in a dark box to illuminate the respiratory droplets of the speakers when they spoke through a hole in the box. A camera at the other end of the box was capturing video of those droplets flying simultaneously.
A total of 14 common face coverings were tested and a computer algorithm was used to count the number of visible particles in the videos, and the results are as follows.
Neck gaiters, generally seen with outdoor joggers, performed the worst in the study, producing even more particles than when people spoke without covering their faces at all.
Martin Fischer, one of the study’s authors, said the main reason could be that neck gaiter fabric breaks down large particles into smaller particles, which tend to stay longer and get carried more easily in the air. . Therefore, wearing a neck gaiter can be counterproductive.
Bandanas, kerchiefs, and fleece balaclavas offered very little protection. Meanwhile, N95 respirators are the best option, and disposable surgical masks made of material derived from plastic are the second best option, according to the study.
Masks made from two layers of cotton and one layer of synthetic material are the third best option and can remove most drops, the study said.
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