Assessment of the possibility of surgical masks re-use after a sterilization process in the pandemic condition of COVID-19

The aim of this study was to explore the possibility re-use disposable masks in order prevent excessive waste generation during pandemic period. COVID-19 has caused rapidly increasing production resulting from necessity common usage personal protective equipment. This research covers evaluation structure surgical subjected a threefold steam, gas or plasma sterilization process verify their re-use. results showed that even after three cycles did not cause significant changes mask air permeability. Hydrogen peroxide layer A third cycle sterilization; nonetheless, it influence permeability mask. reduction cover ratio layers composing causes an increase case steam sterilization, leading mechanical ability penetration microorganisms. limits filtration efficiency. Surgical can be recommended for allows one use thrice, ensuring safety users and limiting mask-waste one-third volume compared with when is used once. reduced application Currently, possible sterilize all one-use masks, but implementation method hospitals medical centers step pro-environmental direction.