Development of antituberculosis melt-blown polypropylene filters coated with mangosteen extracts for medical face mask applications

Summary:

Objective: To develop a three-layer medical mask filter made of melt-blown polypropylene (MBPP) coated with mangosteen peel extract to enhance antibacterial and anti-tuberculosis activity.
Method: Filters were spray-coated with different concentrations of mangosteen extract. The team evaluated physical properties (fiber size, hydrophilicity), bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE), pressure drop (for breathability), and antibacterial activity.

Key Findings:

- Filters with higher mangosteen extract concentrations showed increased fiber diameter, better hydrophilicity, and >95% BFE.
- The coated filters were effective against multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, Staphylococcus aureus, and E. coli.
- Cytotoxicity testing showed that coatings with 2% and 5% mangosteen extract were non-toxic to mouse fibroblast cells.
- The extract released rapidly in buffer solution, suggesting initial burst antimicrobial action.

Conclusion: Mangosteen-coated filters demonstrated strong antibacterial properties, good breathability, and biocompatibility, making them promising for use in medical face masks.
You can read the full study here:

Ekabutr, P., Chuysinuan, P., Suksamrarn, S., Sukhumsirichart, W., Hongmanee, P., & Supaphol, P. (2018). Development of antituberculosis melt-blown polypropylene filters coated with mangosteen extracts for medical face mask applications. Polymer Bulletin, 76(4), 19852004. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00289-018-2468-x