Continuing need drives disposable mask demand | Global Sources
by Dong-Wook Park & Cecile de Veyra
Masks are staying despite dropping COVID-19 cases from the omicron wave because the pandemic is not over yet, and another surge might happen in the future. Even if the pandemic does end, worsening pollution, chronic airborne diseases and possibly a new virus will prolong the need for these easy, cheap and effective extra layers of protection.
However, market projections vary greatly, with some still looking in an upward direction and others such as 3M expecting a downward spiral. Whichever way the actual trend goes, the greater health awareness that has arisen from the pandemic will continue to generate demand. As infectious disease expert Rodney E. Rohde said, “Research and personal information continue to show the value of risk reduction a mask can offer from respiratory pathogens as well as allergens.”
Having carved a niche in this space for KF or “Korea filter” masks, Korean manufacturers will continue to leverage this advantage. They are highlighting the use of formaldehyde-free materials, including nonwoven and meltblown fabrics, elastic spandex and nose wire coatings, all of which are sourced domestically to ensure quality.
3-layer filter
Bigmount&Company offers the Clean Yes KF-AD mask in white and black variants. These products have three layers, consisting of a nonwoven fabric lining, meltblown material in the middle and nonwoven fabric top. For comfortable wear, they have a covered nose bridge strip and soft, elastic spandex ear loops. When unfolded, width is 210mm and length 155mm.
Based on filtration efficiency, they are 99.9 percent effective against bacteria (BFE), 99.5 percent against particles (PFE), 99.7 percent against viruses (VFE) and 99.8 percent against flower particles.
These masks, which are made from materials sourced domestically, are approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in Korea.
Triple-pleated
The mSIX disposable mask from Hyo Ryoung AMD has a three-pleat design that stretches to fit securely and comfortably on any face size. Its highly elastic spandex ear loops are designed for long wear and will not cause pain or tightness. This mask is made of soft nonwoven fabric and offers triple-layer protection. It contains no formaldehyde.
FDA-approved
Hyo Ryoung AMD’s Tori KF 94 is a 3D-style mask from Hyo Ryoung AMD with three layers and more than 94 percent PFE. Its ear loops are designed not to hurt the ears. This FDA-approved mask is made of domestically sourced materials.
Light & breathable
The KF-AD (Korea Filter Anti Droplet) mask from Storinus Co. Ltd has triple-layer filtration, which includes one layer of meltblown material and another of water-resistant nonwoven fabric, and ear loops that do not cause irritation. PFE is 55 to 80 percent based on the KF or “Korean filter” standard. Although its filtration efficiency is lower than KF80, this mask has trade-offs in being breathable and lightweight. It is certified by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety and has KC approval.
SPF50+ protection
This KF94 mask from Storinus Co. Ltd, the Edge, has a quadruple structure that provides a filtration efficiency of ≥98 percent and offers SPF50+ protection. It features enough breathing space that also prevents makeup from getting on the inner lining. This KC-approved mask is made using ultrasonic welding technology and does not contain formaldehyde. Materials include Toray 4S nonwoven PP fabric for the outer layer and domestically made Toray hypoallergenic nonwoven fabric for the lining. In between, there are high-performance meltblown and Korea filter materials. PU nylon is used for the ear loops for secure but comfortable fit, and PP-coated wire for the nose wire.
