Physical and mechanical evaluation of polymeric blends with residues of polypropylene masks

Abstract The SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus pandemic and the rise in climate disasters have fueled a surge in disposable mask production, exacerbating waste challenges. The study proposes a sustainable pathway for recycling Non-Woven Fabric (NWF) originating from masks made of Polypropylene (PP) used as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Eco-friendly blends of virgin polypropylene (vPP) and recycled non-woven fabric (NWF) were produced through extrusion, and the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the blends were evaluated. The addition of NWF resulted in lower tensile and flexural strengths than vPP. However, from 50%wt of recycled NWF, the blends proved to be as stiff as, or even stiffer than, the virgin polymer. While slightly lower, the 50%wt NWF blend achieved properties close to those of vPP, making it the ideal composition for replacing PP in conventional applications. This approach offers a sustainable solution for mask recycling, reducing disposal impacts and supporting a circular economy.