Radiative Thermal Management in Face Masks with a Micro/Nanofibrous Filter

Abstract

Micro/nanofiber-based face masks are recommended as personal protective equipment (PPE) against particulate matter (PM), especially PM_0.3. Ensuring thermal comfort in daily use face masks is essential in many situations. Here, radiative thermal management is introduced into face masks to elevate the user comfort. An interlayered poly(lactic acid) (PLA) micro/nanofibrous filter effectively captures PM_0.3 (99.69%) with minimal pressure drop (49 Pa). Thermal regulation is accomplished by controlling the mid-infrared (MIR) emissivity of the face mask’s outer surface. Cooling face masks feature cotton nonwovens with high MIR emissivity (90.7%) for heat dissipation, while warming face masks utilize perforated Al/PE films with minimal MIR emissivity (10.7%) for warmth retention. Skin temperature measurements indicate that the skin covered by the cooling face mask could be 1.1 °C lower than that covered by the 3M face mask, while the skin covered by the warming face mask could be 1.3 °C higher than that covered by the 3M face mask.