Unmasking the Mask Technology: Meltblowing in the Fight Against COVID19

Abstract

We are witnessing an unprecedented supply shortage and surge in demand for PPE. Critical to these functional articles is the technology of meltblowing. First invented and practiced in the USA, meltblowing is undergoing a much needed revival to supplement significantly burdened supply chains. Increasing need and interest are evident in bringing back PPE manufacture to the West. This talk details the fundamentals of filtration in PPE and covers continuous advances in technology over the past four decades that have enabled highly functional articles suitable in fighting microbial pandemics.

About the Speaker

Dr. Syamal (Sam) Tallury is currently working in the Polymer Products Technology group at ExxonMobil Chemical, Baytown TX. His team specializes in Polypropylene and Vistamaxx™ products with applications in hygiene and medical industries, as well as plastics recycling across North and South Americas.

Prior to joining ExxonMobil, Dr. Tallury was a researcher at the Nonwoven Institute, Raleigh NC and developed shape memory polymer articles and devices. He has earned his master’s degree in 2009, doctorate in Materials Science & Engineering and Fiber & Polymer Science in 2013 from NC State University. He has co-authored 3 book chapters, co-invented 6 patents and published 12 peer reviewed articles in the field of polymer science.