as paper and fabric masks become commonplace to help stop the spread of COVID-19, a team of designers in the USA has come up with a smarter solution. featuring an aerospace grade HEPA filter, 100% reusable and recyclable materials, and a minimal transparent design, the leaf mask offers high performance filtration against dangerous airborne viruses and pollutants. 

leaf is the world's first transparent n99+ HEPA filter mask with UV-C self sterilisation designboom

all images courtesy of leaf

 

 

in addition to the N99+ HEPA filter, which means it blocks 99.99997% 0.3 micron particles, the leaf mask also features clinically proven UV-C light based self sanitisation technology. this destroys bacteria and viruses, making it safer than paper and fabric masks. the active UV sterilisation of the filters also allows them to be used for upto one month, resulting in less waste and damage to our environment. 

leaf is the world's first transparent n99+ HEPA filter mask with UV-C self sterilisation designboom

 

 

as well as including state-of-the-art technology, one important aspect of the design is its transparency. the mask is designed to let you show your facial expressions and display emotion, which can be vital for lip-readers: ‘we designed leaf to be transparent so we could be our normal selves even in abnormal times.’ the clear aesthetic also lets you unlock your phone using face recognition. 

leaf is the world's first transparent n99+ HEPA filter mask with UV-C self sterilisation designboom

 

 

the main covering of the leaf mask is made using soft yet sturdy, biocompatible, 100% recyclable, optical grade silicone rubber. the complete unibody design involves seamless amalgamation of optical materials to create a perfect fit on your face. the rigid structural frame uses high performance, resilient, and 100% recyclable polycarbonate. the HEPA filters are also 100% recyclable and provide a better air flow thanks to a greater surface area, which means the filter can work for longer. a product of redcliffe medical devices, leaf has been through CFD and FEA tests, and comes in different transparent, translucent and solid colors with 3 variants HEPA, UV and PRO.

leaf is the world's first transparent n99+ HEPA filter mask with UV-C self sterilisation designboom

leaf is the world's first transparent n99+ HEPA filter mask with UV-C self sterilisation designboom    

 leaf is the world's first transparent n99+ HEPA filter mask with UV-C self sterilisation designboom

leaf is the world's first transparent n99+ HEPA filter mask with UV-C self sterilisation designboom  

 

leaf mask by alex lightman from redcliffe healthcare

 

 

project info:

 

project name: leaf mask