How nanotechnology solved the biggest problems with kids face masks

Using nanotechnology developed at Stanford University, 4C Air has developed a new kids face mask with unparalleled breathability and filtration.

What are the biggest problems with kids face masks?

Two big issues with children’s face masks are the lack of fine particle filtration and issues with breathability. Masks that offer higher filtration come with the price of increased breathing restriction.

Researchers at 4C Air are using a patented new nanomaterial to create the next generation of airborne protection for children that can help solve both these problems.

The new nano masks, labeled “AireTrust Nano Mask for Kids”, are able to provide filtration similar to, and in some cases better, than that of a N95 respirators without the heavy breathing restriction.

4C Air also happens to be a filtration testing center who aided the World Health Organization during the pandemic to test masks and respirators to NPPTL and NIOSH standards. Normal N95 respirators are required to filter at least 95% of particles using 42 CFR part 83 testing.

4C Air has tested their children’s mask against these standards and found their masks averaged 99.4% initial filtration efficiency.

This breakthrough in filtration technology is achieved through the use of incredibly small nanofibers which layer to block super fine particles PM2.5 and below.

This innovative material is advantageous for two main reasons; it provides less air restriction during breathing and allows for greater airborne protection compared to the majority of masks for kids on the market today.

Why are these masks a big deal for parents?

The CDC recommends that children 2 years of age and older should wear a mask so when most parents look for a kids mask they find lots options, however very few provide a great deal fine particle protection.

Cloth and homemade masks are the most common mask used for children today. These materials are easily available but offer limited protection from airborne hazards.

Cloth simply doesn’t filter much when it comes to finer (PM2.5) airborne particles.

In fact, 4C Air researchers participated with the CDC, NIOSH, and others to provide research that tested popular homemade mask materials to see if their filtration efficacy could be improved (the study can be found here).

While some homemade materials performed better than others, they all fell short of the ideal N95 level.

4C Air saw this as an opportunity to use their innovative nanomaterial to provide a better filtration option for children’s masks.

A big concern for parents is the restriction in breathing that comes with higher-filtering masks who are worried about their child’s breathing ability. This concern also leads to an opposition in mask wearing for children in general.

This is where the AireTrust Nano Mask from 4C Air provides a big advantage. The incredibly thin design allows for easier breathing while provided enhanced protection.

Not only does the mask provide protection for the most dangerous PM2.5 airborne particles, but the adjustable band allows for an improved fit around the breathing area for the smaller faces.

The masks are currently recommended for children ages 3 and up and are offered in 5, 10, or 25 per box. They have an impression 3 year shelf-life making them an ideal candidate when it comes to selecting the best face mask for your child.