ShoeX, a company known for environment-friendly shoes, has developed a biodegradable mask made using Vietnamese coffee – AirX.

The innovation is a result of the need for a disposable face mask that would reduce the environmental impact of disposing the masks in the landfills. This comes after suggestions of not using the same mask for protection against the COVID-19 infection.

According to statistics, the pandemic has resulted in creation of huge medical waste. Mainland China alone uses 116 million tonnes of masks daily. Moreover, in Wuhan the hospitals have generated about 240 tonnes of medical waste every day. The figures on global level would be a matter of concern as the world is struggling through the pandemic.

The AirX mask features 99.99 per cent dual antibacterial technology with 2 layers of protection. It is made using coffee yarns with PowerKnit technology. The silver nanotechnology and coffee have been used for the creation of a biodegradable filter inserted inside the mask.

The masks are comfortable, soft, washable and reusable. The filter used does not need any washing; however it should be changed after 30 days.

The AirX is AATCC 100-certified which means it compiles to the industry standards for antimicrobial fabric performance in United States from QUATEST 3. The next in their pipeline is the development of recycled AirX coffee mask with N95 feature which will be launched soon.

The masks and the filter have a custom-designed 3-layer packaging to ensure sterilised function of nanosilver filter. Users can also enjoy a natural coffee aroma with UV protection and fashionable designs and colours.