During the COVID-19 pandemic, people have grown
accustomed to wearing facemasks, but many coverings are fragile and
not easily disinfected. Metal foams are durable, and their small
pores and large surface areas suggest they could effectively filter
out microbes. Now, researchers reporting in ACS’ Nano Letters have
transformed copper nanowires into metal foams that could be used in
facemasks and air filtration systems. The foams filter efficiently,
decontaminate easily for reuse and are recyclable.
Copper foam as a highly efficient, durable filter for
reusable masks and air cleaners
