Face masks, essential items of personal protection in the healthcare and other sectors, tend to be uncomfortable, especially when worn all day long.
In an attempt to alleviate at least some of the irritation, Dutch company Biopromotions, based in Rotterdam, has added a detail to the mask’s design that eliminates excess pressure on the ears. The company, specialised in the development and the production of custom- made products based on renewably-sourced materials, devised a way to attach a mask strap to support the rubber band holding the mask in place.
“Given the increased use of masks and other vital protective equipment at this time, our aim was to come up with a design that could help avoid irritation for medical professionals – hence the mask strap which reduces the day-long strain around a nurse’s ears,” said Biopromotions managing director Robert de Waal.
The company sought a material that would reflect the company’s sustainability ideals and quality requirements.
“Because of our great cooperation with Braskem, we have chosen a soft bio-based material that is very nice to use and also feels soft around the head.”, said de Waal.
As its name implies, Biopromotions aims to reduce the environmental impact of their products as much as possible. Braskem’s I’m green polyethylene was the most sustainable solution compared to other conventional alternatives, said the company, lowering the carbon footprint of the product and reducing the use of fossil resources.
Braskem’s material is derived from sugarcane, and for every kg used, over 5 kg of CO2 is saved.
Less pressure, more comfort with new face mask design
