Masks

For people used to relying on facial expressions to effectively communicate, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic how are masks changing the way we interact? And what can we do to compensate for losing that all-important smile?

Although N95 face masks are quite effective at blocking transmission of the COVID-19-causing SARS-CoV-2 virus, they're also intended to be used only a few times at most. A new removable membrane, however, could make them much more reusable.

In a new editorial a trio of Cambridge University researchers suggest wearing of cloth mask should be adopted by everyone during the COVID-19 pandemic. The team argues the potential benefits of this behavior outweigh any suggested downsides.

Reversing prior advice, the CDC now recommends everyone wear cloth face masks in public settings such as pharmacies and grocery stores. The CDC says this advice is designed to reduce COVID-19 transmission from those who are unaware they have it.

Founder of Prusa Research, the world’s largest 3D printing factory located in Prague, Josef Prusa has spoken about how the company is doing everything it can to aid the production of much needed medical supplies during the COVID-19 crisis.

In China right now, you'll see many people wearing surgical masks to protect against coronavirus. A scientist claims that such masks may actually do more harm than good, if handled improperly – so he's created a coating that could change that.

Scuba diving can also give some people a feeling of claustrophobia. This is because the flat lenses of most masks offer little or no peripheral vision, limiting divers to only seeing what's directly in front of them. That's why the panoramic AAK 180 was created.

Created by Canadian entrepreneur Dimitri Poliderakis, the North45 scarf is designed to keep winter sports enthusiasts' faces warm while simultaneously not causing their goggles to fog up. We got a chance to try one out.

Avon Protection showcased a new respirator-helmet combination at this week's Counter Terror Expo. The HMK150 provides chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) protection. It is designed for use in situations such as riot control, where there may be both violence and toxic gases present.

A mask stuffed with micro-components could speed up the healing of facial burns.