Application of Zinc Oxide in Medical Protective Masks
Nano zinc oxide is a new high-performance inorganic material for the 21st century, with particle sizes between 1–100 nm. Its greatly increased specific surface area produces surface effects and size-dependent properties not found in bulk materials, enabling unique magnetic, optical, electrical and chemical behaviors as well as antimicrobial and UV-shielding functions.
Medical protective masks are common medical consumables used to prevent the spread of respiratory pathogens. Typical masks have three layers—outer (non-woven water-resistant), middle (electret meltblown filter) and inner (non-woven, moisture-absorbing and skin-friendly). Prolonged wear can create a warm, humid environment conducive to bacterial growth. Incorporating antimicrobial additives helps address these concerns and protect users' health.
An antibacterial medical protective mask comprises an outer layer and an inner layer with a filter layer between them. The inner layer includes an antibacterial zone at its center, covering 30%–70% of the inner layer area; this zone consists of fabric fibers loaded with antibacterial agents such as nano-silver, nano zinc oxide (CY-J90), copper oxide, tourmaline, or combinations thereof. This design helps prevent bacterial growth in the warm, humid environment inside the mask and protects the wearer's health.
In some designs, the antibacterial zone is covered with a silk layer to improve skin comfort and breathability. Using copper oxide and zinc oxide as antibacterial agents can also reduce production costs while maintaining protective performance.