Multifunctional materials with potential antiviral applications in face masks, face shields, and hydrogels against mpox virus

The recent emergence and global spread of the mpox virus (MPXV), formerly known as the monkeypox virus, underscores the urgent need for effective antiviral materials to combat this emerging zoonotic pathogen. This study evaluates the antiviral activity of five functional material films against vaccinia virus, a representative model of MPXV, by the TCID50 assay. The tested materials include two electrospun polyester fabrics functionalised with benzalkonium chloride (BAK) or soap, specifically designed for antiviral face masks. Three other material films were also tested: two biocompatible hydrogels composed of alginate crosslinked with Ca²⁺ and Zn²⁺ or acetic acid-loaded chitosan, and a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film coated with BAK, developed for used in face shields. All materials showed significant antiviral activity (≥ 87.85% viral inactivation): the polyester-BAK and polyester-soap films achieved 90.00% and 87.85%, respectively; the alginate-based and chitosan-based films reached 92.49% and 89.20%, respectively; and the PET-BAK film showed the highest efficacy (94.45%). These findings report on the potential antiviral activity of these materials against MPXV and highlight their applications in protective equipment and hydrogel-based medical treatments to combat this pathogen and other emerging microbial threats, including those related to bioterrorism or microbial warfare.