Moroccan Inventor Develops Reusable Mask to Combat COVID-19 Shortage

This project would provide relief to the authorities who are facing a serious shortage, given the rising number of infections. Alim Berkani remains convinced of the ability of his invention to solve the problem not only in Belgium but also in many European countries. "This mask can be reused for 4 months, or about 120 days, and this duration can be increased if the mask is well maintained," explains the Moroccan, who is in charge of a company specializing in digital creation of interior design and decoration, based in Brussels, reports the MAP.

The masks he proposes to manufacture have "removable vents that can accommodate interchangeable FFP2/FFP3 type filters and are intended for healthcare professionals." According to the Moroccan inventor, these masks also allow "inserting different types of filters depending on the need. According to Alim Berkani, these masks stand out from others for many medical and environmental advantages. "The mask itself is airtight; it fits the face well and does not let air through the sides," he specifies, adding that "the environmental considerations concern the reusable aspect of the mask whose components are easily sterilizable, since they withstand high temperatures".

According to the MAP, another advantage of this mask is that it is not expensive. The manufacturing costs are between 10 and 15 euros per unit. The idea appeals to healthcare professionals, such as Dr. Philippe Hoang, considered one of the best specialists in hand surgery and microsurgery in Belgium. After trying the mask during his consultations, the Belgian surgeon stressed that it has many advantages. It "can save lives" in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, he noted.

After convincing people of the reliability of his product, Alim Berkani must move on to the certification stage with the competent bodies, in order to be able to produce and distribute this mask on a large scale in Belgium. "Without certification, we cannot start commercializing the masks," he lamented, adding that he is still waiting for support from the Belgian authorities to increase the production capacity of his masks and generalize their commercialization.

He also wishes to make his masks available to Morocco. In this sense, he has already made contact with the Ministry of Industry, Trade, Green Economy and Digital.