What are medical masks? Current structure and classification of medical masks?

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Medical masks are becoming increasingly popular and are used by many people every day. Not only does it prevent bacteria, it also has the ability to effectively remove some types of dust.

Faced with increasingly serious air pollution announced through alarming numbers and as the Covid – 19 epidemic becomes more and more complicated, using masks is always a matter of great importance. In particular, the demand for medical masks has also increased. However, not all medical masks are good and safe for health. If you are learning about medical masks and choosing a good quality mask, you should not miss the article below.

medical mask

What are medical masks?

Medical masks are masks manufactured according to national standards TCVN 8389-1:2010 and are made from layers of non-woven fabric that can filter dust and bacteria. Currently, on the medical mask market there are many different designs ranging from 2-layer medical masks to 3- or 4-layer medical masks. And when the epidemic broke out and the air quality deteriorated, 5-layer medical masks were produced that are more effective in filtering dirt and bacteria.

Structure of medical mask

Typically, a standard medical mask consists of many layers of non-woven fabric, has folds and includes microfilter layers, nose splints and straps. Most medical masks will be designed with two sides separated by color so that users can easily use them.

On the outside of the product will be a waterproof layer, often with a variety of colors. The weight may be made of a hygroscopic material, usually white. However, especially for medical masks containing activated carbon, the inside and outside will be black.

When producing medical masks and also as a standard to evaluate quality, the most important part is the microfiltration layer. The special feature of the microfiltration layer is that it is permeable to air but impermeable to water. This layer has the function of filtering dust and bacteria that regular cloth masks cannot. Depending on each type of medical mask, the microfilter layer will be designed differently.

4-layer medical mask

Classification of the most common medical masks

3-layer medical mask

This is the most commonly used mask line today, even in hospitals or medical facilities. This 3-layer medical mask is a basic type of protective prevention with 3 separate functional layers. The outermost layer is made of non-woven fabric with waterproof folds to prevent water and dirt from penetrating inside.

In a 3-layer medical mask, the outer layer will also be used in a different color to distinguish it from the inside. The middle layer is the micro filter layer, which is also the most important part of a medical mask. Made of Polymer fiber capable of blocking viruses and dirt smaller than 10 micrometers in size. The last layer is a layer of non-woven fabric with strong moisture absorption ability to prevent the wearer’s nose and mouth when speaking loudly or sneezing.

Which medical mask is good?

4-layer medical mask

This mask line has the ability to protect and filter bacteria and dust much better than regular masks and 3-layer medical masks. The product will have a structure quite similar to a 3-layer medical mask but has a better bacteria filtering effect thanks to the activated carbon layer. Activated carbon has the ability to prevent and reduce agents that are harmful to human health.

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