Study: N95 masks, surgical, handmade cotton masks block COVID-19 droplet-spray that wears produce while speaking

The setup, intentionally designed to be simple and inexpensive, can be replicated by non-experts, according to the researchers. They said the hardware it requires, including laser equipment, is commonly available and can be purchased for less than USD 200.

While the researchers acknowledge the need for further testing, they suggested based on the findings that N95 masks without valves blocked droplet spread best, and surgical or polypropylene masks and handmade cotton face coverings were also effective.

But the early findings suggested that bandanas and neck fleeces do not provide protection. "Our work was a demonstration of a simple measurement method, not a systematic mask study," noted Martin Fischer, the study's corresponding author.

"More work is required to investigate variations in masks, speakers, and how people wear them. We also want to extend our method to other droplet-generating actions, like coughing and sneezing. Further, we want to explore effects of incorrect placement and moisture saturation," Fischer said.

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