New study finds which masks offer the most protection against COVID-19
The group of researchers used a laser to detect drops and map their path.
THE ANGELS – The researchers say that face masks can prevent the spread of COVID-19, but what type of mask is most effective?
While there are relatively few specific guidelines regarding mask materials and designs, a new study from Florida Atlantic University, titled “Fluid Physics,” found which types of masks offer the best protection against the coronavirus.
Researcher Siddhartha Verma and his team experimented with different options in material and design to “determine how well facial masks block drops when they come out of the mouth,” the study explained.
“We actually tried three homemade masks and one ready-to-wear commercial mask,” said Verma.
Using drops that were coughed and sneezed by a mannequin’s head, the group of researchers used a laser to detect drops and map their way.
The mask simulation shows the leakage of the folded cloth masks.
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The researchers found that well-fitting home masks with multiple layers of cotton padding offered the best protection. These masks significantly reduced the number of drops, according to their findings.
“If you look at the fabric, the individual threads are relatively thick, and everything is very well woven together,” Verma said. “That is why he was able to prevent the drops from spreading too far.”
Bandana-type covers and freely folded masks reduced the distance traveled by the drops by between 25% and 50% for an uncovered cough.
The study showed that the unmasked drops traveled an average of 8 feet, with a maximum observed distance of about 12 feet. With the quilted cotton fabric, the forward motion was reduced to 2-3 inches.
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Verma said all of the tests were done in a calm and quiet environment, different from general areas where ambient air flow and other factors can affect the speed and how the droplets spread. Additionally, the setup used a simplified representation of a cough, which is actually a complicated biological process.
While the study illustrates that masks are important, Verma says they are not a substitute for social distancing.
“If you look at the images, you can see there is a lot of leakage from the sides and from the top, even for the best mask.” Verma said. “So the masks are not 100 percent effective. Wearing a mask does not reduce the risk of transmission to zero. That is why it is so important to use a combination of masks and social distancing. “
