Measurements of face mask’s capability to block ionizing radiation

Experts suggest wearing a face mask during a radiation emergency if it is impossible to get inside immediately and high-level protective respirators are unavailable. This study quantitatively investigated seven face mask materials' ability to block radioactive alpha and beta radiation. Rayon fiber, pure cotton, paper fiber, polyester fiber, nonwoven fiber, advanced nonwoven fiber, and N95 were examined. The results suggest that the abovementioned mask materials can block more than 90% of alpha particles. Rayon fiber, polyester fiber, and N95 can block almost all radioactive alpha particles. On the other hand, the measurements suggest that all tested materials could not effectively block beta particles. Polyester fiber and N95 block more than 10% of beta particles, which outperform other mask materials. In addition, the results imply that the electret fiber might help block beta particles. This study suggests that wearing a relatively thick polyester or N95 mask may be a better choice than wearing a thin nonwoven mask to prevent inhaling alpha and beta particles during a radiation emergency.