Investigation of the use of silicone pads to reduce the effects on the human face of classical face masks used to prevent from COVID-19 and other infections

Abstract

Viruses spreads very quickly and has a fatal risk in people with chronic disease. As the virus vaccine and medications to be used for treatment are not fully developed, alternative ways to protect it from the virus are being investigated. In this study, the effects of a classical face mask on human face were investigated and computer-aided analyses were performed. Three-dimensional model of the classical face mask was performed with the SolidWorks software. The analyses were performed using AnsysWorkbench Static Structural module. The load, boundary conditions and material were defined in the AnsysWorkbench. As a result of the analyses, it has been determined that classical masks influence human face. The classical masks have a negative effective in terms of irritation on the human face. The occurred stresses cause irritation on one's skin. The use of silicone pads has been shown to reduce these effects. It was proved by this study that silicon pads can be used as an alternative method to reduce these stresses. In the future, it is planned to conduct studies investigating mask materials that do not irritate the human face.