A Lakehead University professor is working on a new and unique way of sterilizing N95 masks using UV lights.
Dr. Siamak Elyasi, Associate Professor in Chemical Engineering says this device could help in areas where they have run out of masks but notes it would be better to use new masks if they are available.
“In hospitals, they use UV radiation to disinfect the surface of everything in the surgery room,” Dr. Elyasi said. “It’s a normal practice. UV radiation is also used to disinfect water and wastewater. UV can inactivate microorganisms including viruses. UV was used for SARS and flu.”
The device the LU Prof developed could disinfect any type of mask in around 20 minutes.
Elyasi is in the process of seeking research collaborators who can test it to determine the correct dosage to kill COVID-19.
The professor is building it using a 3D printer and readily available materials and supplies.
Photo Supplied of Dr. Elyasi
