Disposable face masks: a direct source for inhalation of microplastics

TL;DR

This study demonstrates that surgical masks can release microplastics of various sizes during normal breathing, posing potential health risks and highlighting the need for safer mask materials.

Contribution

It provides experimental evidence that masks are a direct source of inhalable microplastics, emphasizing environmental and health concerns.

Findings

Particles ranging from 300 nm to 2 mm are released during breathing.

Large particles (>1 mm) are ejected after few breathing cycles.

Mask wear increases microplastic release.

Abstract

Surgical masks have played a crucial role in healthcare facilities to protect against respiratory and infectious diseases, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the synthetic fibers, mainly made of polypropylene, used in their production may adversely affect the environment and human health. Recent studies have confirmed the presence of microplastics and fibers in human lungs and have related these synthetic particles with the occurrence of pulmonary ground glass nodules. Using a piston system to simulate human breathing, this study investigates the role of surgical masks as a direct source of inhalation of microplastics. Results reveal the release of particles of sizes ranging from nanometers (300 nm) to millimeters (~2 mm) during normal breathing conditions, raising concerns about the potential health risks. Notably, large visible particles (> 1 mm) were observed to be ejected from masks with limited wear after only a few breathing cycles. Given the widespread use of masks by healthcare workers and the potential future need for mask usage by the general population during seasonal infectious diseases or new pandemics, developing face masks using safe materials for both users and the environment is imperative.