Face masks, also known as respirator masks, consist of multiple layers of non-woven fabric. The two outward protective layers of fabric are created using spun bonding.

They act as a protection against the outside environment as well as a barrier to anything in the wearer’s exhalations.

SEM imaging is an ideal tool to check the homogeneity, compactness and average diameter of fibers in the different face mask layers. Sputter coating face masks with a metal coating before imaging them with a SEM is crucial to avoid charging, deformation or melting of the sample when scanned by an electron beam.

Download the application note here to discover how the LUXOR sputter coater helps you achieve that.