The research, conducted by scientists from the University of Cambridge and Aerosol Consulting, tested the ability of various face masks to filter droplets generated by coughing and speaking. The masks were tested dry, damp with water, and soaked with water.
The results showed that all of the masks tested effectively blocked the passage of droplets when they were dry. Damp and soaked masks performed similarly to dry masks.
This suggests that even slightly damp face masks can provide effective protection against respiratory droplets. The researchers believe that this is because the water droplets in the mask help to trap and coalesce the respiratory droplets, preventing them from being inhaled or exhaled.
The findings of this study support the importance of mask-wearing in reducing the transmission of respiratory illnesses. The researchers recommend that people wear face masks, even if they are only slightly damp, to help protect themselves and others from infection.
The study was published in the journal _Physics of Fluids_.
