A Self-Purifying Smart Mask Integrated With Metal-Organic Framework Membranes and Flexible Circuits

Masks are essential personal protective equipment during pandemics. Conventional masks that act as physical barriers due to size-dependence filtration and electrostatic absorption may quickly lose their protection effectiveness due to surface degradation, generating massive obsoleted masks and ecological contamination. Here, a self-purifying smart mask that combines active protection to airborne particles and hazardous gases while conducting real-time monitoring is developed. Electrospun ZIF-8/polyacrylonitrile membranes are used to replace melt-blown non-woven fabrics without additional electret processes. The active ingredients of ZIF-8 can interact with intercepted pathogens and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), resulting in pathogen death and TVOC decomposition. When the electrospinning time exceeds 1 h, the membranes can block particulate matters with a filtration efficiency of over 99.58% and absorb TVOC with an efficiency of 92.57%. Its high disinfection performance can maintain for at least 72 h with an antibacterial rate of 99.07%. In addition, flexible circuits integrated with masks can quantify filtration effectiveness and monitor environmental parameters. The mask with the capability to renew its surface can enhance the endurance of masks for daily use and reduce the usage of single-use masks. They can accommodate diverse demands in public health emergencies, occupational disease prevention, and biohazard defense.

Automated summary

This study develops a self-purifying smart mask that can protect against airborne particles and hazardous gases while monitoring in real-time. The mask uses electrospun ZIF-8/polyacrylonitrile membranes instead of traditional melt-blown non-woven fabrics, providing high filtration and absorption efficiency. It also integrates flexible circuits to quantify filtration effectiveness and monitor environmental parameters. The mask's renewability enhances its durability and reduces the need for single-use masks.