Copper Tannate (CuTn) Based Coating on 3D Printed Face Masks

The impact of COVID-19 crisis on global supply chains caused a critical shortage of essential goods like medical devices. Additionally, massive consumption increased mask contamination and waste. 3D printing has become a fast and versatile manufacturing alternative that prevents a single use of masks. However, SARS-CoV-2 virus can persist on plastic surfaces for days. This study proposes the optimization of 3D printed masks, by applying a coating rich in hydrolyzable tannins and copper, in order to diminish the virus presence. Different paints were formulated with copper tannate and applied on thermoplastic polyurethane 3D panels to test bacterial stability. Results showed a significant reduction of colony-forming units on coated polymeric surfaces. Paints pigmented with copper tannates could improve the protection provided by printed masks, even against the COVID-19 virus.