A new self-cleaning face mask has been created and is set to be a game-changer in the fight against Covid-19.
The smart mask, designed by Copper Fresh, uses a patented technology that actively deactivates the coronavirus, and other viruses and bacteria. Built into the material fibres of the mask is the mainly made of copper oxide which acts as a natural antiviral.
The mask’s introduction comes at an apt time, considering the detection of the Omicron variant just over two weeks ago. The Copper Fresh masks offer dual-side protection with 99.9% bacterial filtration.
The three inventors, David Ash, Dean Lazarus and Roy Miller, are all entrepreneurs who have started and led other successful businesses, both locally and abroad. The trio created this product as an innovative solution to restrict the spread of Covid-19.
Roy Miller said the Copper Fresh mask kills the virus just a few minutes after it touches the mask.
“One of the problems with traditional masks is that it doesn’t prevent you from touching your face often. This means every time you touch your face you are spreading a new virus onto your mask and contaminating it,” he said.
He added: “Our mask kills viruses and bacteria. With the traditional blue mask – if you take your mask off and then put it back on again – you are still carrying the virus with you and ultimately back into your home environment.
“By wearing a Copper Fresh face mask you are effectively putting on a new mask, every minute.”
The Copper Fresh masks sport a pink hue which is given by its copper component, the same thing giving it the ability to self-clean. The mask also retains its self-cleaning abilities even when dirty.
The three inventors said their business venture was launched at the realisation that the pandemic was going to be around for the foreseeable future. Ash said they realised there was little to no new technology in the medical PPE space.
“The stuff they are using today is the same stuff they have been using for the past few decades. Nothing has changed,” he said.
“When thinking of the environmental angle of short-lifespan, disposable masks going to landfills provide further impetus for the venture of a self-cleaning smart mask,” he added.
Copper Fresh has secured the rights to manufacture this unique technology for Africa; where currently 30 patents and scientific studies exist worldwide. The patented fabric gets shipped into their Joburg warehouse where a local team manufactures the masks.
Copper Fresh masks can be purchased on their website for R150 (five masks) and R290 (ten masks).