'What we are breathing through our mouth and nose is actually hazardous waste': Scientists find evidence of toxic chemicals in some face masks
EXCLUSIVE: Preliminary analysis found toxic chemicals in some masks
These include known allergens and carcinogens as well as controlled substances
Masks intended for use by the general public are not deemed to be PPE
Therefore, they do not have to meet the standards of masks worn by doctors
85% of all masks made worldwide come from China and concerns have been raised over substandard manufacturing and opaque supply chains
Scientists have found evidence that some face masks that are on sale and being used by members of the general public are laced with toxic chemicals.
Preliminary tests have revealed traces of a variety of compounds which are heavily restricted for both health and environmental reasons.
This includes formaldehyde, a chemical known to cause watery eyes; a burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat; coughing; wheezing; and nausea.
Experts are concerned that the presence of these chemicals in masks which are being worn for prolonged periods of time could cause unintended health issues.
Evidence obtained by Ecotextile News and shared with MailOnline reveals that although face masks should meet specific standards, not all do.
Masks have been mandated in much of the world as they are a highly effective way of preventing transmission of coronavirus particles.
But face coverings designed for use by the general public are not regulated and fail to meet the same standards as medical grade PPE.
Pictured, a GCMS chromatogram of the chemicals and compounds found on a face mask. The data comes from the unique analytical technique developed by Dr Dieter Sedlak
Professor Michael Braungart, director at the Hamburg Environmental Institute, conducted tests on masks which had caused people to break out in rashes.
'What we are breathing through our mouth and nose is actually hazardous waste,' Professor Braungart said.
These used masks were found to contain formaldehyde and other chemicals.
Formaldehyde is the chemical which gives the 'clean' smell when a new pack of masks is opened. He also found aniline, a known carcinogen.
'We found formaldehyde and even aniline and noticed that unknown artificial fragrances were being applied to cover any unpleasant chemical smells from the mask, he said.
'In the case of the blue-coloured surgical masks, we found cobalt – which can be used as a blue dye.
'All in all, we have a chemical cocktail in front of our nose and mouth that has never been tested for either toxicity or any long-term effects on health,' he said.
Dr Dieter Sedlak, managing director and co-founder of Modern Testing Services in Augsburg, found other chemicals with his own unique testing method.
As well as detecting formaldehyde, he spotted clear evidence of hazardous fluorocarbons, which are heavily restricted.
Fluorocarbons are toxic to human health and scientists have recently called for them to be banned for non-essential use.
This group of chemicals was featured in the recent Mark Ruffalo hit film 'Dark Waters' where a water supply of an entire town was polluted by chemical giant DuPont.
'Honestly, I had not expected PFCs would be found in a surgical mask, but we have special routine methods in our labs to detect these chemicals easily and can immediately identify them. This is a big issue,' said Dr Sedlak.
'It seems this had been deliberately applied as a fluid repellent – it would work to repel the virus in an aerosol droplet format – but PFC on your face, on your nose, on the mucus membranes, or on the eyes is not good.'
Comments