Page 9 - Accelerating Research and Impact - Issue 7

Reusable transparent anti-COVID-19 face mask for barrier-free communication
HUMANITARIAN INNOVATIONS 6
Everyone has to wear a mask to curb the spread of COVID-19. However, this is an additional communication barrier for people with hearing impairment as they cannot read lips or facial expressions behind a mask. Invited by The Hong Kong Society for the Deaf, LEI has designed a fully transparent ASTM Level 3 face mask to meet the needs. Its anti-reflective design also makes lip-reading easier.
Project leader Prof Albert KO said that most transparent face masks available fail to meet protection standards. In many cases, the semi-transparent face masks with anti-pathogen properties reflect and fog up, or the transparent surface area is not large enough to reduce communication challenges for the hearing-impaired. “Inspired by stealth fighter jets, the transparent face mask is combined with the use of polygon design, flat surfaces and sharp edges to make light refract, so as to reduce unwanted glare significantly. With its fully transparent design, users’ lips and facial expressions are visible. In addition, the edge of the mask is made of soft materials that prevent it from moving around while the user is speaking, and it fits close to the face,” said Prof Ko.
This transparent mask is easier to breathe in than a general use surgical mask, as it is fitted with a H13 high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which blocks up to 99.95% of viruses and meets ASTM Level 3 standards according to reports from the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Its anti- viral coating guards against viruses for up to eight months, and the inner layer is designed with long- lasting anti-fog technology. It is reusable by sanitising it with 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes daily, while the filter needs to be replaced every two weeks. Coming in both the ear-loop and headband options, the mask can significantly reduce the burden on people who wear hearing aids for prolonged periods, and addresses the needs of microtia patients and those who need to wear a headscarf.
The mask will be promoted as a more environmental friendly and inclusive option to professionals such as teachers, sign language interpreters, speech therapists and related service workers.