Contributors:

Thomas Galletti : Bioplastic Material Studies 

Bailey Taylor-Black : Biomimetic Nano-texturing 

Ethan Donaldson : Mask form design

This project is a carbon-neutral mask that leverages biotechnology to enhance its function. The overall design of the mask has two parts: a bioplastic shield, and a filtering attachment. The bioplastic uses waste from other industries including chitosan made with lobster and other crustaceans shells. Material experiments were done with agar, corn starch, and gelatin in order to understand how household materials can be turned into bioplastics. Micro imprinting is used in the design to enhance the function of the mask. Sharklet texture inspired by shark’s skin is imprinted on the face of the mask to repel pathogens while gecko-inspired adhesion uses micro-suction cups to make the bonds between the mask and face stronger without the need for liquid adhesion. The final prototype for this project uses gelatin for its lack of smell and very sturdy composition. The result is a pathogen repelling mask that has a net positive effect on the ecosystem by enriching the soil after decomposition. The form itself is as simple as possible while maintaining a medical grade of protection. Using minimal biodegradable material, more and more of these masks can be made then discarded as carbon neutral.