Reuse N95 mask by heating

According to the Stanford university researchers, reuse of N95 mask effectively disinfect by heating. Cost of N95 mask is high in present days. Medical providers, doctors need to wear mask regularly to cure COVID patients. So, researchers have examined what methods are safe for reuse. 

N95 mask's contain a layer of "Meltblown" polypropylene fibers that from a porous, breathable network and the fibers are electrostatically charged. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, heating and bleach treatment are the methods to disinfect the N95 mask.Cleaning the fabric with ethanol or chlorine bleach solution has been found to reduce the filtration efficiency after only one treatment.

After performing test's on all methods the best disinfection method appeared to be heating- researchers said.

For example, heating at 85° Celsius for 20 minutes allowed the fabric to be treated 50 times without loss of filtration efficiency, they said.

However, frequently donning and removing N95 masks could effect fit, which is also impact performance. 

To reuse N95 mask's the following methods are not approved

• Bleach
• Alcohol
• Baking
• Boiling
• Ethylene oxide
• May be toxic to the wearer
• Microwave
• At-home microwaving is not recommended because of variable power settings, and metal portions of the masks may catch fire.
• Sanitizing wipes
• Soapy Water