Materials Sterilization

A major concern in the reuse of masks is prolonged longevity of the pathogen. According to Carolyn Machamer, a cell biologist and professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, the SARS-CoV-2 virus can survive on plastic surfaces for up to 72-hours (Volkin, 2020). A commonplace sterilization technique used in the medical field is extended exposure to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) vapor (Talapa, 2017). There are, however, problems with H₂O₂ vapor in that during the evaporative process it can tear and damage non-rigid surfaces.

An alternative sterilization method currently being explored is the use of a 30 W germicidal UV lamp, such as those manufactured by Cole-Parmer. The Center has ordered this product in addition to radiation dosimeters, which will be used to assess when the PPE has been adequately exposed to the 254 nm wavelength.