Single-use plastic causes severe health and environmental impacts. It accounts for 25% of all waste generated by hospitals, which ends up in landfill and breaks down into tiny particles (microplastics) that cause severe health issues. Fossil fuel combustion to produce plastics is also a major contributor to air pollution-related deaths. This research aims to harness nature-derived materials to develop sustainable protective nonwoven fabrics for medical clothing such as PPE (face masks and medical gowns), filters (air and water), and wipes. Expected outcomes will transform the way we manufacture, use, and dispose of these materials.
