WCU students research which masks work the best
Things like color, size, shape, prints and even bling, factor into the decision-making process. There are standard face coverings and then there are neck gaiters, which are worn around the neck and can be pulled up over your mouth and nose.
But rarely do you hear people who are searching for masks wonder which one’s work the best. Students in Western Carolina University’s College of Engineering and Technology are conducting studies that could help people make more informed decisions on which one’s are most effective.
Through Schlieran imaging, a flow visualization technique that uses photography to show the flow of fluids of varying density, WCU students are in the process of conducting testing of various forms and materials of masks to show what it looks like while breathing normally, coughing, and blowing hard through masks, as well as what it looks like to do the three without wearing one.