Fabrication of biodegradable masks from banana leaves by thermal compression method

Abstract

Medical face masks based on polypropylene non-woven fibres have been commonly used to prevent coronavirus and other types of viruses. However, the waste from medical masks causes pollution problems and negatively impacts
the environment and human health. Biodegradable masks based on banana leaves are a potential solution for reducing the amount of disposal of medical face masks because of their high cellulose content and abundant source in Southeast Asia. This research used the thermal compression method to fabricate the cellulose film after banana leaves were treated with NaOH and H₂O₂. These cellulose films were designed into the biodegradable mask product for use. The properties of the banana-fibre film, such as mechanical property, water absorption, biodegradability, and pH, were analysed and evaluated. The results showed that the cellulose film obtained a tensile strength and modulus of 2.55 and 119.18 MPa, respectively; a water absorption rate of 14.62% and the surface of cellulose film was hydrophobic as shown by the contact angle of 92.5^o. The banana-fibre film was biodegradable; the film’s mass decreased by 93.86% after 9 weeks and completely decomposed after 13 weeks. The banana-fibre mask achieved a pH of 6.96, which was in the pH range that is safe and suitable for humans.