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Pera Uni nanotech face mask soon to be available
The nanotech mask
Produced with pure cotton under nanotechnology by a team of researchers from the University of Peradeniya, a face mask will be available in the market in a few months.
At a recent event, the university signed an memorandum of understanding with a private company that will take over the production.
The mask can be washed and reused many times, according to the research team headed by Prof. Gamini Rajapakse of the Faculty of Science.
The masks will be available at Rs. 200 under the trade mark, Respirone Nano AV 99.
Speaking at the event in Kandy, Trade Minister Bandula Gunawardene said this mask maybe the most technologically advanced mask available in the world and he will promote it worldwide.
Prof. Rajapakse explaining the composition of the mask said it comprises three layers. The outermost layer is a superhydrophobic cotton layer that repels aerosol particles including droplets that can carry viral particles. The middle layer is also a modified cotton layer with antiviral, antibacterial and mechanical properties that will filter air using electrostatic filtration. The third layer is a hydrophilic layer that can absorb and evaporate liquid droplets.
The Peradeniya team also includes Dr. Charita Herath,
Dr. R.D.S.B.Rajapakse, T.T.S.D.Senaratne, M.G.G.S.Tillekeratne and Nanotechnologist Nirosha Samarasinge.
University Vice Chancellor Prof. Upul B.Dissnayake and Chairman of Sarasavi Isabella sign the MoU
The research team headed by Prof. Rajapakse explaining the process in producing the mask to Minister Gunawardene and others