[PA Engineer]

For discussion and opinions.

We know the nCONVID-19 can remain active on surfaces for up to nine (9) days, however surface cleaning can generally be accomplished with 0.1% bleach mixture or other agents: Persistence of coronaviruses on inanimate surfaces and their inactivation with biocidal agents.

The more immediate concern is PPE and especially mask shortages. My family for example have N95, N100 half face and N100 full face respirators.

Normally these filters can be used for days in dust and chemical environments. Virus is an entire different situation. Respirator filters for example cannot be decontaminated with chemicals, nor UVC.

I think there may be an alternative to extend the life of the filters. At 65C exposure, the coronavirus is inactivated after 5 minutes:

Heat inactivation of the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus

Other studies indicate a slightly lower temperature inactivation for nCONVID-19.

I hypothesize is may be possible to inactivate the virus with off the shelf (Amazon) spa equipment:

Soiiw CH-360T Heat Sterilizer 300W 1.5L w/Timer Disinfection Box Manicure Pedicure SPA Salon Equipment for Sundry Beauty Hair Nail Metal Tools with Handle

The unit is affordable and I think 65C will not degrade the filter function.

What are your thoughts? I noticed that a particular UVC sterilizer is now sold out. I don't know how long these will remain in stock.

[grey_whiskers]

Put the mask in the oven at 200F for 5 - 10 min?
Or would that melt the rubber straps.../womp womp>

[LilFarmer]

New thread http://freerepublic.com/focus/f-chat/3820821/posts

[Pollard]

deep freezer?