Researchers at Khalifa University of Science and Technology have successfully developed the first working prototypes of NavaMASK - a fully ‘biodegradable’, ‘biocompatible’, environment-friendly and novel anti-viral adaptive face mask with nanofibers. It will also have strong anti-microbial properties. Patent has been filed by the researchers for the mask’s bio-material.

NavaMASK assures to provide excellent breathability with strong anti-microbial properties. It can also be washed and reused multiple times before disposal. The mask is also up to mark for safe disposal due to its biodegradability and biocompatibility. The project is under collaboration between Khalifa University and University of Salerno, Italy.

Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University of Science and Technology said, “The innovation of biodegradable NavaMask reflects not only Khalifa University's continuous commitment to finding solutions that directly contribute to serving the society, but also the result of the University’s funding of 14 research projects directly related to mitigating the pandemic. This innovation reaffirms our research efforts to develop areas that focus on issues related to the community in general, especially those that help find a solution to COVID-19. Research initiatives at Khalifa University are directed by prominent faculty experts, with the help of state-of-the-art labs and advanced on-campus facilities.”

Prof. Vincenzo Loia, Rector, University of Salerno, Italy said, “The University of Salerno has a consolidated experience in interdisciplinary research at an international level. The quality of our international research and its ability to serve the real needs of the society, yearly reconfirm the accreditation of the University of Salerno in prestigious academic rankings. NavaMask is an additional effective example of a research idea that was born in a laboratory capable to support accurately and promptly the big challenge associate to the complex period we are experiencing, combining innovation and environmental sustainability.”

Dr. Vincenzo Naddeo, Director, Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division, SEED, University of Salerno, Italy said, “From early stages of the COVID19 outbreak, the SEED of the University of Salerno has promptly reconverted the laboratory activities to support national industries in the testing of respiratory devices according to international standards. Since March 2020, the SEED becomes one of the first official hub for face mask testing in Italy and in Europe. NavaMASK is an innovative and sustainable solution in response to the strong demand for protective face masks from society and governments. Our experience in the field has contributed to the optimization of a novel biodegradable filtration material which will be useful for the design of the next generation of face masks. Additionally, in this project we have developed a novel international protocol for rapid and cost-effective testing of face masks.”  

The project at Khalifa University of Science and Technology is being led by Dr. Shadi W. Hasan, Associate Professor and Theme Lead, Center for Membranes and Advanced Water Technology, CMAT, Dr. Faisal Al Marzooqi, Assistant Professor, Prof. Fawzi Banat, Professor and Chair of the Chemical Engineering Department, and Dr. Musthafa Mavukkandy, Post-Doctoral Researcher, Chemical Engineering.

Dr. Shadi W. Hasan said that the concept of NavaMASK was envisaged citing the crucial need for an environmentally-friendly mask alternative to the currently available face masks, while maintaining safety and breathability standards for humans.

Careful selection of the complete biodegradable filtration materials was done to ensure effective protection, avoid skin irritation, and safety to our environment. The face mask will be made of nanofibers arranged perpendicularly with a diameter between 100 and 600 nm to help pass air through but at the same time reject particles, bacteria, and viruses. Its strong anti-microbial properties will ensure 99% effective removal of bacteria. For this reason NavaMASK is expected to outperform majority of the existing facemasks in the market.

Dr. Musthafa Mavukkandy said that a number of optimization experiments were done to seal the right ingredients for filtration bio-material for the face mask.

The Khalifa University researchers are planning to start Phase II, with aim to introduce a second-generation design for the NavaMASK while maintaining high removal efficiency, high comfortable wear, easier breathing, and fewer layers. It will reflect the UAE’s efforts in constant advancing in the field of innovation.

WAM