Analysis of Non Bio degradable
Surgical Masks as a Solid Waste and Identifying the Remedial measures
By
S.Sandhiya – VIII Standard
M.Madumitha VIII Standard
Government Middle School, Manapet
Puducherry
Guide
Teacher:
V.Jayasundhar.
TGT
Government
Middle School, Manapet, Puducherry
9488494481,
jaya.sundhar@gmail.com
School
email: gmsmanapet2010@gmail.com
Contents
Sl.No Topic Page
No.
1.
I. Objectives 4
2.
II.
Introduction 4 - 5
2. III. Rationale 5 - 19
3.
IV.
Methodology 16 - 22
4.
V. Analysis 22 – 27
5.
VI. Result
and Findings 27 – 28
6.
VII.
Conclusion 28 – 29
7.
VIII. Future Scope 29
8.
References 30 – 31
9.
Annexure 32 - 36
Abbreviations:
1. Sl.No. - Serial Number
2. BBC - British Broadcasting Corporation
3. N95 - Not resistant to oil, Respirators
that filter out 95 percent of
airborne particles
4. PPE - personal protective equipment
5. ft - feet
6. in - inch
7. COVID 19 -
Corona Virus Disease of year
2019
8. kg - kilogram
Acknowledgement
We
students of Government Middle School, Manapet, Puducherry sincerely thank our
Headmaster Mr. Palanisamy sir, and all the staff who helped us in completing
this project.
We
thank our parents who supported us in all our activities
We
thank Doctor Banu and Doctor Keerthana for giving us awareness about COVID 19
and about Masks in detail
We
thank our Science Sir Mr. V.Jayasundhar, Guide Teacher for helping us in all
the respect of research done in this project
Analysis of Non Bio degradable
Surgical Masks as a Solid Waste and Identifying the Remedial measures
I. Objective:
1. To analyse about Non
biodegradable surgical masks as a solid waste
2. To identify the remedial measures
II.
Introduction:
The
pandemic COVID-19 what we are facing is the one we did not expected before it
spread early this year. The world itself was in full lockdown and even we were
not even let out for days to months and now it is going to be almost to be a
year if we complete the March 2021. The only way to be safe from Corona virus
infection is to follow “If COVID-19 is spreading in your community,
stay safe by taking some simple precautions, such as physical distancing,
wearing a mask, keeping rooms well ventilated, avoiding crowds, cleaning your
hands, and coughing into a bent elbow or tissue. Check local advice where you
live and work. Do it all!”
Masks
plays a key role in preventing spread of Corona virus since the spread can be
prevented by not allowing the infected air to be inhaled or if a person is
infected will not make others to be getting infected. Doctors prescribe
clinical masks of two layer minimum to be worn by us when going out or even
inside the house to prevent us from the pandemic infection. Clinical masks are
prepared from a nonwoven
fabric created from plastics like polypropylene using a melt
blowing process. They came into use in the 1960s and largely
replaced cloth facemasks in developed countries. The dark
blue (or green) side of the mask (the fluid-repellant layer) is to be worn
outward, with the white (absorbent) layer on the inside. With respect to
some infections like influenza surgical masks could be as effective
(or ineffective) as respirators, such
as N95 or FFP masks; though the latter provide better
protection in laboratory experiments due to their material, shape and tight
seal.
Even though the clinical masks and improvised
N95 and FFP masks give protection to human in other way because of it the
environment is getting polluted since they are non bio degradable wastes and
cannot be reused. And now-a-days the reusable masks available in the market are
not upto the mark even though they are washable and reusable. There candle
blowing test is one of the experiment done by our students shows their non
preventive nature. And the quality one is not affordable to the middle and poor
people to get and use. And also since the masks which are safety are non
biodegradable and is harmful to the environment when discarded.
To overcome this problem we decided to make
our own mask which should be reusable, safe, biodegradable and also should not
pollute the environment. So we researched many sites and folk remedies told by
our elders and decided to make a mask which have herbal power and can also be
reusable. This is the reason why we did this project.
https://youtu.be/aM60V1UcZfo or scan this QR code to view the video:
III. Rationale:
1. In the website of
“The Conversation” it posted the following issue about using face masks. “Face
coverings are now a legal requirement in many public spaces around the world.
But even before they became compulsory, masks were causing litter problems
on land and at sea.
One February beach clean in Hong Kong found 70 masks along 100
metres of shoreline, with 30 more appearing a week later. In the Mediterranean,
masks have reportedly been seen floating like jellyfish. Despite millions
of people being told to use face masks, little guidance has been given on how
to dispose of or recycle them safely. And as countries begin to lift lockdown
restrictions, billions of masks will be needed each month globally. Without
better disposal practices, an environmental disaster is looming. The majority
of masks are manufactured from long-lasting plastic materials, and if discarded
can persist in the environment for decades to hundreds of years. This
means they can have a number of impacts on the environment and people.”
2. Disposable face masks may pose
environmental threat by CGTN's Rediscovering China:
The
wearing of face masks, recommended by governments around the world to prevent
the spread of COVID-19, is producing an unfortunate side effect in the form of
a potential environmental hazard. In particular, disposable masks have been
described as a "menace" because of the plastic they contain. A report
by the United Nations trade body UNCTAD estimates that global sales of
disposable face masks this year will be worth 166 billion U.S. dollars, up from
around 800 million dollars in 2019.
Being
for single-use only, disposable face masks are convenient. However, because
they are made from layers of plastic and since they are being used and disposed
of in such large numbers, they are posing a growing threat to wildlife and
habitats. A study by University College,
London calculated that, in the UK alone, if every person wore one disposable
mask a day for a year, it would create 66,000 tonnes of contaminated plastic
waste.
3. Coronavirus: Disposable
masks 'causing enormous plastic waste' by Justin Parkinson
Political reporter, BBC News:
The government has been urged to do more
to get people to switch from disposable masks to reusable coverings. The Liberal Democrats said single-use
surgical masks caused "enormous" plastic waste and that
environmentally friendly alternatives must be promoted. And the Green Party
wants ministers to push the media to show them less, to stop their use becoming
"normalised". Disposable masks contain plastics which pollute water
and can harm wildlife who eat them or become tangled in them. The UK government
said it was investigating whether personal protective equipment (PPE) could be
"reused in safe ways".
·
Face covering use expanded in England and Scotland
·
Coverings now compulsory for NI shoppers
·
Masks in shops rule to be introduced in Wales
·
Bird found tangled in discarded Covid-19 face mask
To help prevent the spread of coronavirus, face coverings - disposable
or reusable - are now mandatory on public transport, in shops and in some other
enclosed spaces in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The rule only
applies on public transport in Wales, but it will be extended to shops and
other indoor spaces from Monday. The latest figures for Britain from the Office
for National Statistics suggested 96%
of adults who had left their homes in the past week had worn
a face covering.
4.
Alove vera:
Aloe vera gel
can be effectively used to combat Asthma in a safe, natural way.
The immuno-modulating properties of aloe vera
gel intervene in the overactive immune mechanism of the patient and co-ordinate
biochemical reactions. This supports pulmonary respiration to reduce or
eliminate the inflammation in the air passages and normalise breathing.
When the bronchioles, the air passages that
connect the mouth or nose with air sacs of the lungs, get constricted due to
allergic reactions to irritants like smoke, vehicular pollution,
chemicals, pet fur or any other allergens, it becomes difficult to breathe in a
normal and effortless manner.
Since they are located close to the
lungs, any infection or congestion due to mucus can cause serious
breathing problems.
For immediate relief, mix a tablespoon of
pure aloe vera gel in boiling water and inhale the steam. The combined effects
of Acemannan, Aloin, and enzymes like Bradykinase, have anti-inflammatory,
immune-stimulating and reparative effects on the inflamed internal tissue.
Their action reduces and eliminates the mucus and inflammation present in the
airway and restores proper movement of air through the Bronchioles. Spoon out the gel from
an aloe vera leaf and mix in water.
People
who suffer from Asthma should regularly take 25 ml of pure aloe vera
gel three times a day. Eventually, they’ll notice the improvement in their
breathing. Those who suffer from throat infections should regularly use a
mixture of aloe vera gel in lukewarm water and gargle after every meal until
the infection is cured. This prevents the
infection from spreading to the lower respiratory region, which otherwise can
complicate the condition, especially for elderly people.
5.
Vitex negundo:
Nochi – ( Nirgundi – Vitex negundo ): Nochi or Nirgundi as it is
commonly called is native to Eastern and Southern Africa and Asia. It is found
throughout Indian Subcontinent and can be easily identified by its light purple
flowers borne in panicle inflorescence.
Nochi is called by different names in different parts of India. In
English the shrub is called Chinese Chaste tree, chaste tree or Horseshoe Vitex
and the botanical name is Vitex negundo. It is an erect shrub which grows to
the height of 2-8 metres. The leaves are digitate with five and sometimes three
leaflets.
Figure2:
Vitex negundo
Nochi is an amazing herb well known for its excellent medicinal
values and numerous uses since ancient times and extensively used in Ayurveda
and Siddha. Nochi is also known as “sarvaroganivarini”, the remedy for all diseases. Nochi is an effective Anti-inflammatory,
Vermifuge, Alterative and an effective Astringent. Nochi leaf in particular is
known for its effectiveness in the treatment of sinusitis, headache, muscle aches
and joint pains.
Nochi leaf is also found to be effective against ringworm, eczema and various
other skin infections, liver disorders, spleen enlargement, rheumatic pain,
gout, abscess and backache.
Some of the Medicinal Uses of
Nochi :
1. Nochi leaf is famous for its
use in the treatment of sinus infection. It relieves the pain as well as the inflammation. There are two
traditional ways Nochi is used in the treatment of sinus; Nochi steam and Nochi pillow.
2. Nochi leaves are anti-inflammatory in nature. They are used
to relieve swelling, arthritic pain and body pain caused due to increased Vata.
A small bundle of Nochi leaves are heated and used over swelling as fomentation
in the affected area to relieve pain.
3. Nochi leaves are highly
effective against spleen enlargement. Juice of Nochi leaves is prescribed to be
taken early morning on empty stomach to relieve spleenomegally. The paste made
out of Nochi leaves is applied externally over the inflamed spleen area.
4. Oil made out of Nochi leaves is
applied over the head in case of pain and inflammation around neck.
5. Nochi leaves are known
Vermifuge and the juice from fresh leaves are considered highly effective.
Because of their anti-inflammatory properties Nochi leaves are
also used in post natal care to reduce swelling in uterus.
6. Nochi leaves are considered
valuable against skin disorders like ringworm, eczema, abscess and various
other skin infections. The paste made out of leaves is applied on skin
infections and the juice extracted out of fresh leaves is used to clean skin
ulcers.
7. Nochi leaf is also found
to be effective in the treatment of liver disorders.
a. Administration and usage:
1: Nochi steam:
A small stone or piece of brick is heated till red hot. Water is
boiled in an open mouthed vessel with Nochi leaves. The patient can bend over
the vessel and breathe in the steam. The patient is covered completely with a
blanket to retain steam for a longer duration. To maintain the temperature,
previously heated stone is placed in water.
2: Nochi
pillow:
This needs at least a bunch of Nochi leaves to be put together in
the form of a pillow. These leaves are heated in an earthen pot till brown in
colour and then put inside a pillow cover. The patient is advised to sleep on
this pillow for relief of sinus headache and heaviness in the head.
3: Nochi Kashayam: Boil 10 gms (2 tsp
Approx.) of Nochi leave powder and 1 tsp of black pepper in 200 ml of
water till it is concentrated to about 1/3. Take 50ml of this decoction twice a
day. Improves immunity and highly effective in treating many infectious
diseases like Dengue fever and releives body pain.
4: Nochi Fumigation: Traditionally fumigating
the house with Nochi leaves powder is done to keep away mosquitoes as well
as airborne diseases. It is done by sprinkling Nochi leaves powder
on burning hot coal kept in a proper holder with long handle specially made for
this purpose and take it around the house to spread the smoke and the
positive effects of the herb.
6. Morinda citrifolia
(in tamil Nona):
Morinda citrifolia grows in shady forests, as well as on open rocky or sandy shores. It reaches maturity in about 18 months, then yields between 4 and 8 kg (8.8 and 17.6 lb) of fruit every month throughout the year. It is tolerant of saline soils, drought conditions, and secondary soils. It is therefore found in a wide variety of habitats: volcanic terrains, lava-strewn coasts, and clearings or limestone outcrops, as well as in coralline atolls. It can grow up to 9 m (30 ft) tall, and has large, simple, dark green, shiny and deeply veined leaves.
The plant bears flowers and fruits all year round. The fruit is a multiple fruit that has a pungent odour when ripening, and is hence also known as cheese fruit or even vomit fruit. It is oval in shape and reaches 10–18 centimetres (3.9–7.1 in) size. At first green, the fruit turns yellow then almost white as it ripens. It contains many seeds.
Morinda citrifolia is especially attractive to weaver ants, which make nests from the leaves of the tree. These ants protect the plant from some plant-parasitic insects. The smell of the fruit also attracts fruit bats, which aid in dispersing the seeds. A type of fruit fly, Drosophila sechellia, feeds exclusively on these fruits.
Figure3: Morinda citrifolia
a.
Uses:
A variety of beverages (juice drinks), powders (from dried ripe or unripe fruits), cosmetic products (lotions, soaps), oil (from seeds), leaf powders (for encapsulation or pills) have been introduced into the consumer market.
b. Traditional medicine:
Green fruit, leaves, and root or rhizomes might have been used in Polynesian cultures as a general tonic, in addition to its traditional place in Polynesian culture as a famine food. Although Morinda is considered to have biological properties in traditional medicine, there is no confirmed evidence of clinical efficacy for any intended use. In 2018, a Hawaiian manufacturer of noni food and skincare products was issued an FDA warning letter for marketing unapproved drugs and making false health claims in violation of the US Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.
7. Ficus:
A banyan (or 'banian') is a kind of fig. It usually starts life by growing on another plant as an epiphyte. Its seeds germinate in the cracks and crevices on a host tree, or on other structures like buildings and bridges.
"Banyan" usually means the Indian banyan or Ficus benghalensis. It is the National tree of the Republic of India.[1] and of Bangladesh respectively. However, the term actually includes all figs which share their epiphytic life cycle. They are put in the subgenus Urostigma. The seeds of banyans are dispersed by fruit-eating birds. The seeds germinate and send down roots towards the ground. These roots may envelop (cover) part of the host tree or building structure, from which they get the casual name of strangler fig.
A number of tropical forest species grow by strangling. There are other examples in the genus Ficus that competes for light. Any Ficus species showing this habit may be termed a strangler fig.
The leaves of the banyan tree are large, leathery, glossy green and elliptical in shape. Like most of the fig-trees, the leaf bud is covered by two large scales. As the leaf develops the scales fall. Young leaves have an attractive reddish tinge.
Older banyan trees have aerial prop roots that grow into thick woody trunks which, with age, can become indistinguishable from the main trunk. Old trees can spread out laterally using these prop roots to cover a wide area.
Like other Fig species (including the common edible fig Ficus carica), banyans have unique fruit structures and are dependent on fig wasps for reproduction.
Figure
4: Figus benglensis
a. Banyan tree uses
Banyan is one of the most commonly available tree
species in India. The use of extracts from the banyan tree for the treatment of
various types of infections and diseis quite common due to its medicinal
properties. The health benefits and uses that can be derived from the banyan
tree have been listed below.
b. For digestive system: Banyan tree has several benefits for your
gastrointestinal system. It has antimicrobial and healing properties which help
relieve dysenterand diarrhoea and the high fibre content of banyan leaves is
effective in preventing constipation.
c. Relieves arthritis symptoms: Banyan leaves exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic
properties, which have been found to be helpful in relieving arthritissymptoms.
d. Boosts immunity: Banyan tree bark extracts are used traditionally for its immunity
boosting properties. Research studies suggest that this is because of the preof
antioxidants in this extract. They neutralise oxidative damage, thereby
improving immunity.
e. Clears vaginal infection: Banyan leaf powder is mixed with water to prepare a
vaginal wash. It has antimicrobial properties which suppress the growth
ofpathogenic microbes and relieve symptoms of common vaginal infections such as
leucorrhea.
f. For skin care: Extracts
prepared from banyan leaves have a soothing effect on the skin. It prevents
skin allergies when used as a topical formulation along withaloe gel. When
mixed with milk, this extract relieves acne and rashes.
g. Banyan tree for oral health
The root extract of the banyan tree shows prominent
antibacterial activity against many bacterial species responsible for tooth
decay and gum disorders. The two main strains of bacteria responsible for this
are Lactobacillus and Streptococcus mutans. A study demonstrated
that the banyan tree root extract, when mixed in a tooth paste showed
significant gerimicidal (potential to destroy or kill germs) activity, when
tested on animal models. Use of the banyan tree may thus be beneficial for oral
health and hygiene.
h. Banyan tree for inflammation and pain
Banyan tree has been traditionally used for its
anti-inflammatory (effective against inflammation, that is, swelling, pain and
redness) and analgesic (pain relieving) properties. The use of banyan tree leaf
extract against inflammation caused by diseases such as arthritis has been
demonstrated. Studies found that the aqueous extract banyan tree leaves has
pain-relieving properties similar to that of morphine. Further in vivo studies
are, however, required to acknowledge the full potential of banyan extract in
this regard.
i. Banyan tree for the immune system
Ficus benghalensis has
been popularly used in the folk medicine of India. The extract from the bark of
the banyan tree is a good agent for boosting the immune system. Studies found
that this extract contained several bioactive compounds. These bioactive
compounds have antioxidant properties and the capacity to neutralise free radicals
(that cause damage to the internal organs of the body). They help in boosting
the immune system and prevent diseases.
j. Banyan tree for skin care
The extract of the banyan tree leaves and barks have
been found to have skin protective properties. It has the capability to block
the toxic effects of several allergens(allergy-causing agents) and provide a
soothing feeling. It is also used to prevent skin damage.
The leaf extract of banyan tree can be used along with
warm milk to prepare a herbal drink to treat conditions like acne and rashes.
Dermatologists prescribe concocti(mixtures) prepared from banyan tree leaves
and aloe vera to treat skin allergies and improve skin health. The aqueous
extracts of Ficus benghalensis have been found possess the capacity to
heal wounds and are often used in their treatment.
k. Banyan tree for the brain
Different parts of the banyan tree are used to treat
several neurological conditions. The fruits of the banyan tree have been found
to possess the compound serotonin can act against anxiety and depression. Further
studies have also found that banyan tree extract can aid in the relaxation of
the muscle cells. The bioactive compounds have the ability to enhance memory
and moderate the levels of seizure in case of a panic attack.
l. Other benefits of the banyan tree
Besides numerous uses in the health sector, the banyan
tree has also been found to be beneficial in other ways. The other benefits
that can be derived from the different parts of the banyan tree have been
listed below.
m. Banyan tree against mosquito-borne diseases
The leaf extract of banyan tree has larvicidal
properties (killing the larvae) against the Culex tritaeniorhynchus and Anopheles
subpictus species of mosquito. These mosquitoes act as vectors of diseases
such as encephalitis and malaria respectively. The methanolic extract of banyan
tree leaves has been found to effective for thecontrol of mosquito species,
which can help to prevent and control mosquito-borne diseases.
n. Banyan tree as anti-bacterial and anti-fungal
The extract obtained from the aerial roots also called
prop roots of the banyan tree, have been found to possess anti-bacterial and
anti-fungal properties. The aerial root contains several bioactive compounds
that are effective against several species of fungi and bacteria. This property
of the aerial roots has an immense potential for these biocontrol agents
against the spread of many diseases and in food preservation.
o. Banyan tree for pollution control
Banyan tree can also be used as agents for pollution
control. Studies have found that banyan tree has the potential to act against
the agents causing air pollution. This property of banyan tree makes it a good
agent for maintaining the quality of air in areas with high levels of air
pollution. This may help in the prevention of respiratory disorders and
ailments in that community or area.
i) Combats
Respiratory Ailments
Figure 5: Ocimum tenuiflorum(Tulsi).
9.
Justicia Adathoda:
The Leaves, flowers, fruits and roots of adathoda are used in the preparation of the drugs in siddha medicine to cure various diseases such as coughs, colds, asthma, skin infections, fever, bleeding piles and inflammation.
Figure
6: Justicia Adathoda
Medicinal uses of
Adathoda:
1. Consuming
Adathoda Kasayam/Tea with honey reduces cough, cold, blood pressure, fever and
tuberculosis.
2. Adding
a Cardamom when preparing the tea and drinking twice a day can cure cough,
fever and blood pressure.
3. Adathoda
Tea/Kasayam is a good expectorant when it is prepared with Adhimadhuram
(Liquorice), Thippili (Piper Longum), and Thalisa Pathiri (Abies Spectabilis).
It is also good for patients suffering from Asthma and Chronic Bronchitis.
4. Adding
Kandankathiri (Solanum Surattense) root when preparing the adathoda root
kasayam and drinking it with honey controls cough.
10. Azadirachta
indica:
Neem
is one of the most popular herbs in the world of Ayurveda. It has an
array of medicinal properties that help keeping you away from common
infections. It has over 130 biologically active compounds that show wonders in
keeping viral and bacterial diseases at bay. Also Read - COVID-19 Impacts
Wipro's Fourth Quarter Revenue, Says CEO Neemuchwala
Neem
is known to be a powerful immuno-stimulant and that’s what makes it ideal to
have in current time when the entire world is under the constant threat of
novel coronavirus infection. Also Read - Fascinating Beauty
Benefits of Neem Essential Oil
11. Plectranthus
amboinicys:
Karpooravalli scientific name is Plectranthus amboinicus and once it was identified as Coleus amboinicus. Karpooravalli is also known as Indian Borage in English. The leaves are tender and soft with an astringent taste from the juice when it is chewed raw. Sadly, Karpooravalli can be cooked and eaten raw. Any South Indian household with a baby or child will definitely come across Karpooravalli which is famous as traditional medicine. I have personally used it for my 2 years old son when he develop chesty cough and flu.
a. Karpooravalli Health Benefits and Medicinal uses
-
Helps
to alleviate cold and cough.
-
Used
to reduce nasal congestion and sore throats in adults.
-
Karpooravalli
concoction is used to treat asthma and bronchitis.
-
Helps
in digestion if stomach is upset.
-
Used
in cooking and flavouring of dishes.
-
Karpooravalli
is also planted to keep aedes mosquitoes away in Tropical countries.
12. Cocos
nucifera:
The coconut
tree (Cocos nucifera) is a member of the palm tree family (Arecaceae)
and the only living species of
the genus Cocos The
term "coconut" (or the archaic "cocoanut") can refer
to the whole coconut palm, the seed,
or the fruit,
which botanically is a drupe,
not a nut. The name comes from the old Portuguese and Spanish word coco,
meaning 'head' or 'skull', after the three indentations on the coconut shell
that resemble facial features. They are ubiquitous in coastal tropical regions
and are a cultural icon of the tropics
a. Coconut Shell Carbon:
The
use of activated carbon to remove harmful impurities like organic contaminants
from water has been practiced since Roman times. Activated carbon is the
generic term used to describe a family of carbonaceous adsorbents with a highly
amorphous form and extensively developed internal pore structure.
Activated
carbon is extremely porous with a very large surface area, which makes it an
effective adsorbent material. This large surface area relative to the size of
the actual carbon particle makes it easy to remove large amounts of impurities
in a relatively small enclosed space.
The two mechanisms by
which the chemicals are adsorbed onto activated carbon are either it ‘dislikes’
water or it attracts into the activated carbon. Activated carbon adsorption
proceeds through three basic steps:
- Substances adsorb
to the exterior of the carbon surface.
- Substances move into the carbon
adsorption pore with the highest adsorption energy.
- Substances adsorb to the interior
graphitic platelets of the carbon.
Coconut shell-based
activated carbons are the least dusty. Predominantly microporous, they are
well-suited for organic chemical adsorption. Coconut shell-based carbon has the
highest hardness compared to other types of activated carbons, which makes it
the ideal carbon for water purification.
14. Gossypium arboretum, Cotton:
Cotton is a soft, fluffy staple fiber that grows in a boll, or
protective case, around the seeds of the cotton plants of the genus Gossypium in
the mallow family Malvaceae.
The fiber is almost pure cellulose.
Under natural conditions, the cotton bolls will increase the dispersal of the
seeds.
The plant is a shrub native to tropical and
subtropical regions around the world, including the Americas, Africa, Egypt and
India. The greatest diversity of wild cotton species is found in Mexico,
followed by Australia and Africa. Cotton was independently domesticated in
the Old and New Worlds.
The fiber is most often spun into yarn or thread and used to make a
soft, breathable textile.
The use of cotton for fabric is known to date to prehistoric times; fragments
of cotton fabric dated to the fifth millennium BC have been found in the Indus Valley Civilization, as
well as fabric remnants dated back to 6000 BC in Peru. Although cultivated since
antiquity, it was the invention of the cotton gin that
lowered the cost of production that led to its widespread use, and it is the
most widely used natural fiber cloth
in clothing today.
A
team of researchers claims to have found the best materials for homemade face
masks: a combination of either cotton and chiffon or cotton and natural silk,
both of which appear to effectively filter droplets and aerosols.
The researchers found that a sheet of tightly woven
cotton — of 600 threads per inch — plus two sheets of chiffon, made from
polyester and spandex, seemed to make the most effective combination, filtering
out 80–99% of the particles, depending on their size. The
team even suggests that the performance of this combination is comparable to
that of N95 masks, which are used by healthcare professionals. Other
combinations that perform well, according to the researchers, are tightly woven
cotton plus natural silk or flannel, and cotton quilt with cotton-polyester
batting. The researchers explain that combinations involving a fabric with a
tight weave, such as cotton, and one that can hold a static charge, such as
silk, are likely effective because they provide a double barrier: mechanical
and electrostatic.
15.
Carcia papaya:
When it comes
to natural means of controlling health issues, we often think of neem, basil,
dandelion, aloe vera and mint leaves. The new addition to this list is papaya
leaf that has medicinal properties. Even Ayurveda considers it an effective
means to control a few life-threatening diseases. Though it might be difficult
to consume leaves directly, it is advisable to consume it in form of juice.
Read this article to know how to make papaya leaf juice and its effective
health benefits.
A.
Mapping the area:
Mapping the area of our village for non bio degradable masks thrown by
the people thrown in the environment and types of masks used by them in day to
day life for the period of 60 days. Data are collected accordingly for 60 days
and are tabulated and analysed for the usage of facemasks by the people and its
trash to the environment. Also a alternative mask with herb extracts and
reusable is made and tested with people who trash masks in large amount to the
environment and tested for the usage and trashing after the mask with reusable
and herbal properties. The following materials were required for the analysis.
a.
Materials required for mapping:
1. Android phone with data.
2. Google Earth Software.
3. Plants Identification software in our school and Manapet Village,
Bahour commune, Puducherry.
b.
Preparation of reusable herbal mask:
1. B. Identification
of herbs:
Identification of herbs prescribed by our elders as folk remedy for
filtering the impurities and prevents the microorganisms.
C.
Preparation of cartridge for herbal face mask:
With the help of the traditional knowledge got from elders a new immune
boost drink is formulated for minimizing the pandemic in our village.
Preparation
procedure:
Ingredients
1. 2 fresh leaves of Justicia Adathoda
2. 2 fresh leaves of Plectranthus
amboinicus
3. 2 fresh leaves of Piper betle
4.
10 grams of Aloe vera gel
5. 5 fresh leaves of
Azadirachta indica
6. 5 fresh leaves of
Nochi
7. 1 fresh leaf of
Papaya
8. 5 fresh leaf of Nona(Morinda
citrifolia)
9. Adventitious Roots
of Banyan tree
10. Coconut fiber pith
11. Coconut shell
carbon
12. Cotton plug
a.
Steps involved:
1. All the leaves were taken and washed
thoroughly in fresh clean water.
2. The leaves were grinded; extract were
taken and kept separately
4. Activated coconut shell carbon is
grinded and kept separately.
5. Coconut fibre is made into soft
unwoven fibres and kept separately
5. Adventitious root of banyan tree is
grinded and kept separately.
6. A cotton spread of 5cm x 2cm is taken and
soaked in the extract
4. All the extracts were mixed with
activated carbon and the cotton is soaked in the extract thoroughly.
5. The extract soaked cotton is now a
cartridge which is dried in shadow.
6. After cartridge is ready then two
cotton masks are to be taken.
7. First mask is kept down and nonwoven
coconut fibre is kept over it and above it grinded banyan tree adventitious
root is kept
8. The dried cartridge is kept over it
and the second mask is placed over the cartridge is placed over it.
9. Herbal reusable mask is ready to use.
Latitude: 11.862532, Longitude:
79.780157
Figure 9: Mapping of Area Government Middle School, Manapet Village, Map(Source Google Maps).
Figure 9.1: QR code for directions to
Government Middle School, Manapet from Puducherry White Town.
V. Analysis:
For analysis the data of total number of people using non bio degradable
mask and using bio degradable mask in reference with time is taken for sixty
days from 15.10.2020 to 15.12.2020. The time for observation is from 9.00 a.m.
to 5.00 p.m. with hourly data recording. At the end of 30 days a graphical
analysis is done with the received data.
When collecting the data the rubrics followed include time, days, male,
female, adult, children, Non biodegradable mask counting, bio degradable mask
counting . Comparison of male and female in using non biodegradable and
biodegradable masks overall in the village is collected and graphically
analyzed for the usage. The same way total number of adult and children using
non biodegradable and biodegradable masks overall in the village is collected
and graphically analyzed for the usage Data were collected for 10 individuals
selected for observation in using non bio degradable and bio degradable masks
before introducing herbal reusable mask and after introducing herbal reusable
mask. Graphical analysis is done for 10 adults with the collected data.
Duration: 30 days
From: 15-10-2020 to 15-11-2020
Time: 9.00 a.m. to 5.00p.m.
|
|
9-10 |
10-11 |
11-12 |
12-1 |
1-2 |
2-3 |
3-4 |
4-5 |
Overall |
|
Surgical or Clinical
mask (Non-Biodegradable
mask) |
28 |
55 |
63 |
145 |
29 |
31 |
27 |
87 |
465 |
|
Cloth mask (Bio degradable mask) |
10 |
5 |
58 |
65 |
8 |
5 |
7 |
33 |
191 |
Graph: 2 Total numbers of masks used
by Adult and Children
Duration: 30 days
From: 15-10-2020 to 15-11-2020 (30 days)
Time: 9.00 a.m. to 5.00p.m.
|
Type of mask |
Adult |
Children |
Over All usage |
|
Non Bio degradable
mask |
450 |
178 |
640 |
|
Bio degradable mask |
15 |
13 |
28 |
Graph:3 Total number of masks used by adult selected for observation before giving herbal mask
Duration: 15 days No. of male: 10
From: 15-11-2020 to 15-12-2020 (30 days) No. of female: 10
Time: 9.00 a.m. to 5.00p.m.
|
Type of mask |
Male |
Female |
Over All usage |
|
Non Bio degradable
mask |
92 |
47 |
139 |
|
Bio degradable mask |
29 |
13 |
42 |
Duration: 30 days No. of male: 10
From: 15-11-2020 to 15-12-2020 (30 days) No. of female: 10
Time: 9.00 a.m. to 5.00p.m.
|
Type of mask |
Male |
Female |
Over All usage |
|
Non Bio degradable
mask |
17 |
8 |
25 |
|
Bio degradable mask |
4 |
6 |
10 |
Graph: 5 Comparison of Total number of
non bio degradable and bio degradable masks by adult before and after introducing
herbal bio degradable masks
Duration: 30 days No. of male: 10
From: 15-11-2020 to 15-12-2020 (30 days) No. of female: 10
Time: 9.00 a.m. to 5.00p.m.
|
Type of mask |
Before Male |
After Male |
Difference |
Before Female |
After Female |
Difference |
|
Non Bio degradable
mask |
92 |
17 |
75 |
47 |
8 |
39 |
|
Bio degradable mask |
29 |
4 |
25 |
13 |
6 |
7 |
VI. Result and Findings:
From
the graph: 1 it is analyzed that:
1. Total
number of adults using non bio degradable masks are 450.
2. Total number of adults using bio degradable
masks are 191
From the graph: 2 it is analyzed that:
1. Total number of
adults using non bio degradable masks are 450.
2. Total number of
children using non bio degradable masks
are 178.
3. Total number of
adults using bio degradable masks are
15.
4. Total number of
children using non bio degradable masks are 13.
5. Overall usage of non
bio degradable masks is 640
6. Overall usage of non
bio degradable masks is 28
From the graph: 3 it is analyzed that:
1. Total number of non
bio degradable masks used by the adults before introducing the reusable herbal
masks is male-92, female 47 and overall usage 139
2. Total number of bio
degradable masks used by the adults before introducing the reusable herbal
masks is male-29, female 13 and overall usage 42
From the graph: 4 it is analyzed that :
1. Total number of non
bio degradable masks used by the adults after introducing the reusable herbal
masks is male-17, female 8 and overall usage 25
2. Total number of bio degradable masks used by the adults after
introducing the reusable herbal masks is male-4, female 6 and overall usage 10
From the graph; 5 it is analyzed that:
1. Total number of non bio degradable
masks used by male is 92 and female is 47before introducing herbal biodegradable
masks
2. Total number of non bio degradable
masks used by male is 29 and female is 4 after introducing herbal biodegradable
masks
3. Overall usage of non bio degradable
masks by male and female is 39
4. Overall usage of bio degradable
masks by male and female is 7
VII. Conclusion:
From the analysis of data the
following results are concluded:
1. It is concluded that the people of our village are using non bio
degradable in large quantity than bio degradable masks
2. It is concluded that adults are using masks in large quantities than
children
3. It is concluded that the adults selected for observation were using
non bio degradable masks in large quantity than bio degradable masks.
4. It is concluded that the adults selected for observation usage of non
bio degradable masks gets minimized
5. It is concluded that the usage of non biodegradable masks is got
minimized in male and female.
VIII. Future Scope:
In future even better ways need
to be found out to minimize the usage of non bio degradable masks in turn to
protect the environment from the pollution caused by them.
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Annexure
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