Controlled Degradation of a Tri-layered Nanofibrous Face Mask with Immobilized Enzymes

This thesis presents a novel strategy for developing a self-degradable tri-layered nanofibrous face mask using enzyme-embedded electrospun nanofibers. Polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers with embedded PHL7 serve as the middle filtration layer, while post-consumer polyethylene terephthalate (PET) nanofibers form the structural inner and outer layers. The final mask achieved 99.27% filtration efficiency and fully degraded within 28 days under mild aqueous conditions. This work offers a sustainable, scalable solution to face mask wastes, integrating principles from materials science, biotechnology, and environmental engineering to advance circular economy goals.