Kanpur's varsity develops all new 'more effective' hepa filter mask

In an effort to make state of the art equipment to ward of the COVID-19 pandemic, two faculty members of the Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU) in Kanpur have developed a 'hepa filter' mask with a face shield. The face-mask, with shield is said to be more effective in the prevention of COVID-19 infection.

The two faculty members have tested and tried the mask under various circumstances. The two faculty members behind the invention of the all new hepa filter mask are Assistant Professors Dr Shashwat Katiyar and Dr Saurabh Mishra.

Tests have shown fruitful results

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As part of the process to make the mask and to gauge its effectiveness, the developers have tried and tested it in a number of ways. The mask was completed in less than a month and a prototype has been given to a Lucknow company for mass manufacturing, after its lab-test. According to the professors, their masks protect the eyes, nose and mouth from contracting any harmful microbe, including coronavirus, they said.

Effectiveness of the mask

Wondering what exactly is a hepa filter and how it is better than your ordinary mask? According to Dr Mishra: "Hepa filter is much more effective in preventing coronavirus infection than the KN-95 masks. The hepa filter mask can withhold 99 per cent of microorganisms or particles of 0.3 micron size, which is more than KN-95 masks. This gives hepa filter masks an edge over KN-95 masks."

Convenience & safety

Due to the handy design of the mask, it can be folded and taken along anywhere easily and can be worn by people of all ages. Dr Katiyar, Director of the Institute of Biotechnology and Biosciences at CSJM University, said that the mask will come in handy in protecting children in schools, as well as people at large in crowded places.

Incidentally, the Hepa filter mask is cost effective and will soon be available for purchase online, for ₹100-₹150.