"THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DIFFERENT

FDA AND NON-FDA APPROVED KN95 MASKS BASED

ON THE MATERIALS”

A Quantitative Research

presented to the Senior High School Unit

CLARET SCHOOL OF QUEZON CITY

Mahinhin St., UP Village, Diliman, Quezon City 1101

in partial fulfillment of the requirements in

PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2

Alde Lorenzo Miguel S.

Barlis Joseph Paul D. F
Laroco John Benedict P.
Pamatian Dann Adrian I
U Christian Dale G.

Grade 12 - STEM – St. Thomas the Apostle

Lapore, Maria Ivora C.

Research Adviser

Date of Completion: December 6 2021

 ABSTRACT

People worldwide are using different fact masks to protect themselves with the
most recommended being the KN95 face mask, however, people are not checking whether
their mask is reliable or not. This research aims to educate people in knowing the difference
between FDA approved masks and non-FDA approved masks quantitatively because the
problem is, “how can an individual know if their mask is recommended or not?” Along the
way, three questions are to be asked and answered, “What type of KN95 masks are the
most effective according to their materials? “How effective are the different types of KN95
masks in terms of universal fit? “and “What is the significant difference between the
different FDA and non-FDA approved KN95 masks?”. Through experimentation and
survey questionnaire distribution it is discovered that FDA approved masks are more
recommendable and safer rather than their non-FDA counterpart. This finding means that
people can distinguish real masks from counterfeit masks through simple observation
which can help people improve their decision-making skills. With the use of charts and
tables the data in this research shows the comparison between the KN95 masks and the
non-FDA approved masks, and this shows that FDA masks are strong and are mostly used
by people unlike their non-FDA approved counterpart. This research recommends using
more refined data gathering methods, careful survey creation and distribution and
performance of the experiment twice so that data gathered can be accurate.

Keywords: COVID 19 pandemic, Effectiveness, Fire match test, KN95 mask,

NIOSH ,Universal fit, Water drop test,
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The research team would like to thank our consultant teacher Ms. Mejia who helped
us on this journey in creating research. In terms of the Mathematical method of research
the team would like to thank Ms. Editha Alfonso for solving a struggle involving statistical
treatment and Sir Bobbi Macscareñas for introducing the statistical treatments to the team
members. The team would like to give the greatest gratitude to Ms. Lapore Ivana Maria for
helping the team members along the way by educating about the parts of research and
solving problems regarding data.

It would also like to thank the fellow cooperation of the fellow research teammates who
placed their lives in focusing on creating this research. For the data, gathering, the team
would like to thank the respondents (Grade 12 STEM) for answering the survey given by
the research members. The experiment would not have been done without the effort of the
2 team members who chose to do the experiment.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT …………………….…........2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT …………………...……......3

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study ……………………………..6
Statement of the Problem ……………………………..8
Scope and Delimitation of the Study ……………………………..10
Significance of the Study ……………………………..11

CHAPTER 2 REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE AND CONCEPTUAL

FRAMEWORK
Related Literature ……………………………..12
Conceptual Framework ……………………………..15
Research Hypotheses ……………………………..16
Definition of Terms ……………………………..16

CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY
Research Design ……………………………..17

Participants of the Study ……………………………..20

The Instrument ……………………………..20

Validity of the Instrument ……………………………..21

Data Collection Procedure ……………………………..22

Statistical Treatment ……………………………..23

Plan for Data Analysis ……………………………..23

CHAPTER 4 PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA
Presentation and Analysis of Data ……………………………..25
LIST OF TABLES
1. Water drop test (FDA approved KN95 masks) ……………………………..25
2. Water drop test (Non-FDA approved KN95 masks) ………………………..26
3. Fire match test (FDA approved KN95 masks) ……………………………..27
4. Fire match test (Non-FDA approved KN95 masks) ………………………..28

LIST OF CHARTS
1. Section Distribution of Respondents ……………………………...29
2. Age Distribution of Respondents ……………………………...30
3. Distribution of Respondents in Question 3 ……………………………...31
4. Distribution of Respondents in Question 4 ……………………………...32
5. Distribution of Respondents in Question 5 ……………………………...33
6. Distribution of Respondents in Question 6 ……………………………...34
7. Distribution of Respondents ……………………………...35
Interpretation and Discussion of Data ………………………….......37

CHAPTER 5 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary of Findings ……………………………...39
Conclusions ……………………………...40
Recommendations ……………………………...41

References ……………………………...41
Appendices ……………………………...43

1. Survey Questionnaire/Instrument ……………………………...43

 Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

During the COVID 19 pandemic, face masks are necessary. Many people are
picking up masks so that they themselves can avoid the infection and spread of the virus.
There are multiple types of masks but the most effective and most reliable is the N95 mask
series which also includes the KN95 mask, these masks can filter out 95% of airborne
particles which provides more protection than other types of masks like surgical or cloth
(Healthline, 2020). The KN95 mask was developed in China and can be preferable in any
situation especially in close contact or people who are highly at risk of severe illness from
COVID-19 (CDC, 2021). Additionally, people are not aware of how effective these masks
are and what brand of KN95 is the most effective based on its material. Fo r a mask to
become effective it needs to follow three requirements: durability, level of protection, and
the respirator (Halyard health, n.d.). In addition to the KN95 mask problems, there are also
cases of counterfeited face which can pose a threat to people, even some FDA approved
masks turned out to be counterfeited (Hohman, K. 2020, November 20). As many masks
have not been approved by The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH) based on its respiratory protective devices (CDC, 2021). Different KN95 masks
utilize varied materials to structure the mask. The structure of masks remains general across
assorted brands, but it differs in how many layers it has, and the materials used such as
Polypropylene and others. Polypropylene (PP) comes from plastic. Polypropylene has a lot
of characteristics, for one it is chemical resistant, tough, resistance to electricity, and retains
shape. All KN95 masks do not have to be made of Polypropylene to be effective. It does
not have to follow a standard structure and materials. What is important is that it filters
95% of particles (HealthDesk, 2021). In Dental products report, it states issue of healthcare
workers purchasing expensive sought after KN95 masks, however failed regulation of the
quality made them purchase counterfeit masks that failed to do the functions at an accepted
efficacy, one of the ones stated in the article only filtered 24-35% of particles. Of the 11
FDA approved masks tested again, 7 turned out to be faulty and counterfeit which failed
to meet the requirements (Hohman, 2020).

From these problems, people are already beginning to worry about the mask that
they have whether these are legitimate to preserve effectiveness (Sargent, 2020). To test its
effectiveness and even its legitimacy, one must know and test the fabric, fit, and packaging
of the mask that contains, one example of a test that must be conducted in this research is
that of lit match or candle test because a good face mask should not even move the flame
(Carbonaro, 2021). When it comes to face masks, there are 3 things that users must
remember, good fitting is not universal, self -assessing is inaccurate and there are ways to
improve on self-assessment on the masks (O’ Kelly, 2021). There are no concurrent studies
about KN95 masks across the varied brands. So far, there have only been studies that
compare the several types of masks, and what to look for in KN95 masks.

Albeit there are studies that focused on the qualifications and standards of KN95
masks, those studies only compare the several types of masks and how different masks can
curb COVID cases. The reason for checking the effectiveness of the masks based on brand
and quality is because although KN95 masks do not fully protect the wearer against small
and microscopic objects, it can give a true level of protection against the virus in additional
it can also bring the amount of comfortability to the wearer to make breathing easier
(Halyard Health, n.d.). From there, KN95 masks will not only serve as protection against
viruses but also against different liquids and particles of substances that can occur during
hazard-related works or natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and contaminated areas
like nuclear factories.
Statement of the Problem

KN95 masks are the recommended masks in the Philippines. It is ideal against the
multitudes of covid variants such as Lambada and Delta, for they are more contagious due
to smaller droplets. However, the KN95 masks are there to filter the air we breathe in and
breathe out. The idea is to filter the air and to protect people from getting the virus. This is
ideal for our situation because as the virus gets increasingly lethal, people need to
protect themselves with better medical equipment. And to protect themselves, they must
wear masks.

The issue comes from the KN95’s materials used. Unfortunately, not all masks are
made the same. The quality of the materials used is inconsistent and unregulated. In
coherence, myriads of KN95 masks are counterfeit or have low effectivity rate, thus fails
to protect us from the COVID virus and its variants. People sell KN95 masks in streets,
malls, stores and online. In return, some KN95 masks are not regulated, and most are not
FDA approved. Because of the unregulated KN95 masks, it does not uphold the
effectiveness that it should ward off COVID and other respiratory diseases, ergo most
people fall sick in COVID because of it (Healthline, 2020).

Consequently, a lot of people are fooled and left vulnerable. In a societal scale, due
to fake masks, COVID will persist and the never-ending rising of cases and will hinder us
from achieving goals as a person and recover from the economic ruin that we are currently
stuck in right now. Howbeit, developing knowledge on the most popular KN95 masks that
people use nowadays will spare them confusion and knowledge whether these masks are
safe to use and effective.
 The goal of the experiment is checking the effectiveness of each mask based on the
brand and quality of the material, check if they are durable and able to withstand other
particles aside from the COVID 19 virus itself. The researchers will conduct a series of
experiments that will justify if the mask is effective. From the problems indicated, we must
identify masks that are safe to use and share this information so that it can educate people
on what is an appropriate mask that can withstand not only viruses but also d ifferent
substances. In this ongoing pandemic, we must make the right decisions to circumvent the
virus from spreading and infecting us. Developing information about the appropriate mask
will help people on what to choose and reduce the spread of virus.

1. What brand of KN95 masks is the most effective according to its materials?

2. How effective are the different brands of KN95 masks in terms of universal fit?

3. What is the significant difference between the different brands of KN95 masks?
Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study focused on KN95 masks performance, effectiveness, and protection against
small sub particles.

It identifies the main problem due to lack of education on examination and

demonstration of effectiveness and legitimacy of different KN95 masks because although
KN95 masks offer protection, the strength of it and brand legitimacy and material used was
left unchecked. The goal and purpose of the project is to teach the audience how to
scientifically and quantitively check the different KN95 masks materials based on the
effectiveness of the material quality and brand whether it is recommended or not and the
brand is legitimate. At the end of this research, the project must achieve the following: a
clear and deep understanding of different KN95 masks and the ideal material they should
be made of, opening the methods to the audience about checking the masks that people
own at household, by sending the message to the audience about the importance and
benefits of checking the KN95 masks, and helping them choose the best quality that is
recommended to them based on brand and material quality that contributes to the overall
effectiveness of a KN95 mask.

The project is done because of its relation to the current pandemic, the percentile of
the KN95 mask’s effectiveness (and especially the legitimacy) differs from every brand
available. For this project, tests are to be conducted to examine the build, quality, fit and
layer quantity of the mask in relation to durability, safety, and its reliability. The tests
ranged from the water to candle test, this project will also involve the red dye test, aroma
test and mask fit. At home is where the research will be done to avoid virus contact, it will
be done for a duration of 1 hour per mask. Each KN95 mask costs about 30 -120 pesos, but
since there are KN95 masks at home the researchers will use them instead as an
alternative.

However, there will be a warning though as one of the experiments will involve the
use of fire so the researchers must handle it with care. Another problem is also wasting the
KN95 masks which could have been used by people.

Significance of the Study

The findings of this study are of great benefit to society considering that face
masks have a significant role in this time of pandemic. High-rate of effectiveness of a
mask has been a huge demand and essential around the world to effectively prevent the
spread of COVID-19 viruses and use for hazardous workplace. Providing reliable
information about the effectiveness of KN95 to society is one of the solutions to educate
people to mitigate the impact of the pandemic.

Citizens will have less risk and more protection against the virus upon knowing
the effectiveness of KN95. They will know how to spot a legitimate or counterfeit mask
and check whether it is durable and comfortable for the wearer.

Healthcare workers. This can provide information in choosing the right face
masks for their work. This can help in increasing their protection against the virus when
providing direct care for COVID-19 patients.

Workers of Hazardous jobs will have better protection against hazardous

particles and can increase their performance due to having better equipment that prevents
them from getting sick because of hazardous materials in their workspace that can
potentially affect their performance in their work.
 Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The COVID19 pandemic brought upon the importance of wearing a face mask as
according to the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention, facemasks can help protect
yourself from respiratory droplets which are caused by coughing and sneezing proving that
wearing a face mask is highly effective against different viruses. In simpler terms, masks
are considered as the mouth’s barrier as they are one of the principal areas where viruses
can affect the person. It is important for people to wear masks even though they are not
sick because they can still spread the virus, it is found in people with asymptomatic and
pre-symptomatic conditions. Another idea mentioned by the CDC is that right and
persistent mask use is a crucial step all people must abide by to reduce the spread of the
virus (CDC 2021).

During the initial stages of the pandemic, medical scarcity was a concurrent issue
of the time one of the vital to avoid any exposure to contamination is that mask was the
recommended by the health experts. Ergo to that, people have made makeshift PPE gear to
fight the COVID-19 virus. In addition, they used household materials as substitutes for
protective gear like masks. For example, they used sponges as respirators due to the lack
of masks. But these household substitutes are not enough to fight off the virus just because
they are not as effective as masks certified by NIOSH (Chua H. M et al., 2020). The
universal fit of the masks is quite important when it comes to safety and filtering air
particles. If it is loose fitted, it can allow foreign substances or air particles through the
gaps then it is not safe. In the report, the tightest mask provides the best safety. With a
mask that is not fit or too loose, it will not provide the percentile of effectivity that it should
have. 3m masks are the best universal fit among all the masks tested. According to Halyard
Health, for the rating of the mask, first, it must look after the ASTM level rating. The rating
goes to level 1, level 2, and level 3 barrier, while 3 being the highest-rated rated protection
and one being the lowest.

Both common cloth and surgical face mask were deemed to be equally ineffective
with filter around 10% and due to significant buildup of exhaled droplets that are still
spreading. It was later again conducted on the more expensive N95 and KN95 masks were
soon to be reported around 50% to be filtered (ScienceDaily, 2021). N95 masks provide
the best safety and are recommended to healthcare workers or people living in high -risk
areas. It filters 95% of particles in the air as small as 0.3 microns. KN95 masks are the next
best thing after N95. Although researchers in the US found out that about 70% of KN95
masks from China do not meet the requirements based on effectiveness as N95 masks.
According to the rigorous testing protocols, conducted by the researchers from ECRI, both
have the same percentage in filtering small sub particles, but KN95 is said to have less
effectiveness than N95 and not required to use for healthcare purposes as N95, but can still
be used outside healthcare settings and can be more effective than other normal and cloth
face masks (Healthline, 2020).

The rest of 30% of KN95 masks 15 out of 80 precisely still evident to be claimed
to have approved by the FDA and CDC. This is only crucial if applied to the whole covering
is fitted properly and the durability lasted longer and is much more efficient to reuse for
some time (Sky Medical, 2021). Because of other cases the poor fit in wearing the mask,
allows more air to go through gaps without being filtered properly and it do es poorly in
filtering because of the poor fit. To counteract this, you can tighten the cords or close the
gaps by layering.

Not all masks are created equally. And its function differs from one mask to
another. Ways to test the efficacy of the mask are to use an observable experiment by
filtering the mask with water and letting it hang for a while and by seeing if any droplets
were spilled through the fabric as an indication of ability to penetrate by some number of
molecules to be not filtered. The result will be interpreted through the volume of water that
penetrates the mask. There are tests or experiments that can do to test its effectiveness like
the universal fit tests, as they should have been fitted and covered our mouth and nose.
There should be no air gaps as well. It should have layers as well. Such as the outer fabric
being water repellant and the inner fabric filtering the droplets and the inner fabric that also
filters the air and breath. The light match test is to blow out through the mask an d try to
flicker or put out the flame, once the mask is fitted through and try to extinguish the fire
and did not light off it meant that the mask could contain the aerosols within the mask, on
the other hand, if it able to extinguish the fire, the mask is not effective (Carbonaro, 2020).
There are performance metrics that go into consideration when making or buying a mask.
First, fluid resistance means that the mask should repel any forms of fluid such as water,
droplets, and other liquid forms. Secondly, breathability. When breathing, it should have a
controlled airway of breathing, the higher breathing resistance indicates a more filtered air
and lower breathing resistance means more comfortable yet less filtered air. Thirdly,
bacterial filtration measures how much bacteria are filtered and caught. Lastly
flammability, in this test, you will have to blow the flame and if it goes out, it is not safe
or good but when it is not put out, it is good. (CDC, 2021). There are myriads of masks
that are not recognized by NIOSH. Most counterfeits are not safe and are inhumane for
people, especially in this time of pandemic where masks are a necessity nowadays.
Counterfeit masks will leave people vulnerable even though they are wearing masks,
people that are protected just because they are wearing masks. To know if masks are
NIOSH accredited, they should be checked based on the packaging, and it is best if the
masks are to be effective (llinger, 2021).
Conceptual Framework:

Figure 1: Effectiveness of different FDA and Non-FDA approved KN95 masks IPO
model

The effectiveness of the different brand of KN95 masks will be determined

according to its materials and its universal fit. Fit of the masks are important when it comes
to safety and filtering air particles (O Kelly E., 2020). In addition, the study will also focus
on how significant the difference between the different brands of KN95 masks is. The
process of analyzing the data will be thorough experiment and questionnaire to test the
effectivity of the different brands of KN95 masks and determine which is the most effective
brand of KN95 and how significant the difference is between the different brands of
masks.
Hypothesis
The KN95 masks approved by FDA and the counterfeits or non -FDA approved will
be used to test if certain there are certain counterfeits of acceptable quality for public use.
The materials used on KN95 masks will have the largest overall impact o n a mask's
effectiveness in usage.
Definition of Terms
Defined Conceptually
Aroma - specific one of the five basic senses of smell.
Aroma test - The aroma test that involves the
participants in inhalation of the mask through the sense
of smell meaning that if the mask could enter through
with a distinguish of scent to check its effectiveness.
Contamination - It is the act of making things unclean
by pollution or poison
Counterfeit Respirators –Falsely Marketed mask
KN95 mask - KN95 was one of the face masks known
as one of the most reliable and effective masks available
to the public.
Match test – A match test that involves the participants
in extinguishes of lit fire.
NIOSH- The National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH) is a federal agency that is
responsible for conducting such research based on
health safety.
Packaging – Secure and encasement to be preserved.
Respiratory droplets – The aqueous droplet is
produced by exhalation through the mouth and nose
that is transmissible by airborne pathogen consisting of
saliva or mucus.
Universal Fit – Designed to fit an accessory.
Defined Operationally
It is through the observation of any distinction
of smell that inhibits pervasive quality or
atmosphere of a particular type.
The face mask is presented the well ventilated
of containing the aerosols and virus that if it
has an effectual use for safety measures.
In this case it implies that there was intrusive
or impure contact of dirt and the making of
inferior of the material and/or conditions.
Unapproved, Contraband, and Ineffective.
(CDC, 2021).
There were numerous studies that supported
these claims based on said to be 95% filtered
aerosol particles.
When it is blown through the mask in front of
the fire or a candle and if it flickers or puts out
the fire, the mask is proven to be not
dependable. On the other hand, when you blow
through the mask and if it does not flicker or
put out the flame or candle, it is effective.
It is part of the Centers for Disease Control
(CDC)and Prevention in the Department of
Health and Human Services (DHHS).
Refers to the encasement and protection to
avoid any spoils and any tainted exposure to
any such tampered conditions.
It was also known as a Flügge droplet that has
the size range between < 1 µm to 1000 µm.
The word “Universal Fit” denotes both words
based on the description of physical fit of the
mask’s appropriate wear.
 Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY

Research Design

The wearing of a face mask has been mandated by the government and leading
health officials to minimize the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. The face masks had
been employed and vastly distributed to the public due to the concerns of
ineffectiveness brought from various kinds of counterfeit of face masks. The aim is to
understand the absolute optimal efficacy of the KN95 face masks in terms of its material
of the product, reduction flow of aerosols and the comfort of the fit by its covering. As
the research is going to takes focus more on the quantitative route in proving the
hypothesis thus answering which among “The KN95 masks from multiple distinct
brands of its material will be used to test if certain brands are better of quality in the
making of the masks over others.

Once the data are collected the creation of the presentation will proceed through
data analysis and reviews to make sure that any biases will be avoided.

There are 3 questions to be answered in this research:

1. What type of KN95 masks are the most effective according to their materials?
2. How effective are the distinct types of KN95 masks in terms of universal fit? &
3. What is the significant difference between the different FDA and non-FDA
approved KN95 masks?

Under the quantitative research design, this will fall on the correlational
design because this research will determine the decision and strength of the connections of
the team’s selected variables. This way the team can get a clear picture of
the traits, trends, and connections as they exist.
The population for the research to be conducted and studied is the involvement of the
Grade 12 STEM students at Claret School of Quezon City. Its probability sampling method
will fall under the stratified random sampling method, this is because it is easier, however
it is riskier to biases so this will have to be done carefully to achieve the required
data. Another group of the population focused on are the experimenters who involve 2
members of the research team themselves. For the collection of data, it will be done by a
survey while on the other hand the other data gathering method to be done involves the
work of doing experiments.

In this research the data collection methods for this research are the online survey
method and observation method which are to be done quantitatively, these are beneficial.
The survey questionnaire will revolve around the online distribution of the forms that
consist of a series of questionnaires by the Likert scale. To gather quantifiable data based
on the levels of satisfaction, agreeableness, and overall assessment by the respondents.
Another data collection method is the observation method where it involves systematic
measuring or counting of data which is divided by categories and criteria based on the
experiment to proceed with. It is to be determined in advance by which the information of
the experiment procedure is required with a judgement to clearly supplement the research
topic and its hypothesis.

Furthermore, the research of the KN95 face masks should reflect on the outcome
of the data gathered in experiments criteria and the presented Likert scale by the given
numerical data to an observable result. Each of these data collection highlights the raw
analysis for it able to define the relevance, adequacy, reliability, and validity of the quality
of the findings in the study. Thus, the measurement of data should reflect the app ropriate
of an in-depth examination of the effectiveness of the KN95 masks. Once the data has been
collected, it can be analyzed by 2 methods the distribution of data (which is to be
categorized) and the central tendency method which can help strengthen th e hypothesis. It
is considered important that these data are to be analyzed once finished collecting because
it shows the usefulness of the instrument and the effectiveness of the data gathering
method/s that are used in the research which is also used to avoid any biases.

Participants of the Study

The researchers chose Batch U grade 12 STEM students as the respondents of this
study. This will not be complicated for the researchers since the researchers are part of this
grade level and will be able to save more time and effort in conducting this survey. 95
students are required to answer the survey. However, it would be preferable if all the Batch
U students could answer the survey, but not all students use KN95 masks. The total
population of grade 12 stem students is 125 excluding the researchers. With this population,
stratified random sampling as a sampling method will be applied since the population that
are expected to answer in this survey is divided into groups based on what mask they are
using, and the target population will be the people who uses KN95 masks and will be
randomly selected as the sample in the target population.

On the other hand, the experimenters are members of the research team who are
going to do the experiment which includes one or two members. The members are going
to be the ones who will be providing different KN95 masks, both FDA and non-
FDA approved and the other required materials that are needed to get the data. From this
perspective this means that the researchers will witness and experience firsthand how the
Water tests and matchstick test experiment are going to work
Instruments

The researchers will perform two observation-based studies through

experimentation. These experiments will answer two of the questions in the research such
us “What type of KN95 masks are the most effective according to their materials?” and
“What are the significant difference between the FDA and Non -FDA approved KN95
masks?”. These two questions will be answered through observing the ex periments and
organizing the collected data from the experiment to produce a conclusion to the questions
that are asked. Both questions will be experimented with the same method of experiment
of water drop test match test, to find out what materials are th e used for making KN95
masks. This will also be classified on a table of listing differences of one mask to another

The last will be a questionnaire used to gather data from selected people as the last
question of “How effective are the different types of KN95 masks in terms of universal fit?
"Is a question that requires a wide audience to get the most accurate data. The questionnaire
is made with 2 different methods of answering the questionnaire, Likert scale will be used
for rating on certain questions, questions that would make more sense to be rated by the
respondents, questions such as mask quality, and fit which will give us data that can be
easily compared to one another. and open-ended questions for questions that will have a
wide range of different answers from the audience that cannot be restricted to only a few
answers. The Likert scale will make it easy to determine the satisfaction of the sample
population to their KN95 masks. While for the open-ended questions are for further
inquiries that should allow the respondents to answer them and reflect on the survey
questionnaire.
Validity and Reliability of Instruments

Data gathering requires two instruments which are experimentation and survey for
our study. The experiments implemented by the researchers which are water drop test and
match test were approved by the teachers and panelists who are alumni students. For the
survey, it contains two types of questions which are Likert scale and open-ended questions.
The survey made by the researchers was submitted The researchers were submitted
to experts on the field of education for validation purposes and were approved for
gathering data regarding our study.

The water droplet test used for data gathering regarding our study is reliable as
this is used to test the effectiveness of face masks according to other related
articles (2020, ScienceAlert). The water drop test is tested on other stuff as well. Such as
in concrete where they apply a stream of water on the surface to see if the concrete
absorbs the liquid (2009, NCMA). Water drop tests can show hydrophobic areas
and contaminants on the surface. Distilled water droplets are dropped on the surface of the
mask and if it lasts more than 25 seconds, it passes the water break test (2012, science
direct).

The match test used for data gathering in determining the effectiveness of different
FDA and Non-FDA approved masks for our study is reliable as this is used to test how
effective the masks are in diverting our breath while wearing the masks. Dr. Simon Kolstoe,
a Senior lecturer and University Ethics Advisor at the University of Portsmouth uses match
test that led him to succeed in his research regarding the efficacy of N95 masks (2020,
Carbonaro). The match test is a simulation for masks. In everyday life, we wear masks. it
depicts our breath leaving the mask. The goal of the mask is not to extinguish the fire. the
mask should prevent breath or air from leaving (2020, NPR). When you can blow out the
candle flame, the mask fails its purpose. The mask should not prevent air from coming out.
And it may be because of gaps around the mask (2020, CTGN).
Data Gathering Procedure

The data are going to be gathered in two separate ways, the first is going to be
through survey questionnaires and the next is going to be through doing experiments.
During the experiment, the data are to be recorded in a table for the Water test and the
checklist for the fire/matchstick test. This way the data to be gathered can become
quantitative once it is time for analysis. The procedures will be documented by pictures or
a video to show the demonstration of how the research experiment will be done and the
data gathering method using the instruments that are available to the team members’ homes
right now.

The survey will use MS forms to form the survey, two different question types,
Likert scale questions, and open-ended questions. The Likert scale questions will be used
for questions that can be rated and scaled from 1 to 5 with 1 being the lowest satisfaction
and 5 being the most satisfaction towards the KN95 mask. The open-ended questions will
be used for questions that have many varying answers between people, people will answer
in sentences for it. Likert scale questions will have questions that can be rated, questions
like satisfaction of the masks fit, questions that can be answered through rating. Whilst the
open-ended questions will be questions that cannot be answered through limited answers,
questions like what brand their masks are from.

Apparatus and materials

Materials:

1. 10 KN95 masks; 5 FDA Approved and 5 non-FDA Approved

2. Water

3. Measuring Container

4. Fire Matches

5. Candle
Statistical treatment

For the experiment, placement of the data in a table regarding the results and the
observations made throughout the duration of the experiment. Likert scale would be
utilized about the optimal to measure the assertion of the respondents. Overall, the
experiment will be based on the observation and the data will be recorded on a table using
a Likert scaled method so that the observations made can be transformed into quantitative
data.

Descriptive statistics will be applied for the statistical treatment for the research. The
appropriate statistical treatments to be used to analyze the data gathered by the researchers:

1. Measure of central tendencies - Mean

Data Analysis

To recap, the hypothesis of this research is that materials are what make a KN95
mask legitimate and working, while brands will not have much of an effect on it but will
determine the things that affect convenience such as fit and comfort. From this research the
data will be first prepared by using the necessary instruments in data gathering then once
gathered it will organize for data analysis. In this research survey, it will have a total of 95
respondents through stratified random sampling, this is so that with the criteria of owning
a KN95 mask, the team will receive responses that come from people who own KN95
masks. For the survey, the collected data will be analyzed using the cross tabulation and
trend analysis method as these will help the researchers quantitatively check the data
collected to provide an answer for the research question “How effective are the different
types of KN95 masks in terms of universal fit? “.
 For the data analysis in the water drop test, after gathering all data from the
experiment, the team can determine which of the masks has the most effective material
which is by determining what it is. We will use the measured volume and time as our data
to compare the effectiveness of different FDA and Non-FDA approved masks and interpret
it through tables. We will also determine the time on which how long the water droplets
penetrate the mask. After measuring the volume of the amount of water that passes through
the mask, the researchers will be able to evaluate the protection of the mask from the
volume of water that passes through the mask. After analyzing the data, we will present
the data in bar graph to show the results from the data gathered.

As for the data analysis of match test, after doing the observation checklist of the
effectiveness of different FDA and Non-FDA approved masks, through the analyzation,
the experimenters will determine if the type of KN95 mask passed the observation checklist
with a yes/no answer and interpret through table showing if the masks passed the match
test as this test checks the diversion of our breathing while wearing the mask. In the match
test if the smoke from a match was caused to a turbulent flow due to bre athing while
wearing the KN95 mask, we will uncheck the type of KN95 mask whether FDA approved
or non-FDA approved in our observation checklist to indicate that the mask did not past
the match test and the protection is not thick enough to divert our breathing.
 Chapter 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the outcome of the data collection. The first section is the

presentation of data and analysis of data. It shows the visual presentation of the data

gathered and their brief explanation. The second section would be the data interpretation

and the discussion of the results.

Presentation and Analysis of Data

Table 1.1: Water drop test (FDA approved KN95 masks)

KN95 Mask Pour down at least Is the mask wet at How many
10 mL of water and the opposite end? protection layers of
let it hang. Does the KN95 mask
water droplets leak? would be
If yes, what is the penetrated by the
duration? water?

3M 0 mins No 1
5D 0 mins No 1
MC McBride 0 mins No 1
GB2626-2006-AA 0 mins Yes 1
LVTA 0 mins No 1
Average time 0 mins
Table 1.2: Water drop test (non-FDA approved KN95 masks)
KN95 Mask Pour down at least Is the mask wet at How many
10 mL of water and the opposite end? protection layers of
let it hang. Does the KN95 mask
water droplets leak? would be
If yes, what is the penetrated by the
duration? water?

Daddy’s choice 5mins Yes 3

purism
3D 29 mins Yes 4
KN95 38 mins Yes 4
(Unbranded)
Powecam 45 mins Yes 5
NAN QI XING 0 mins No 2
Average 23.4mins

You will need water and time for the test, in this test you will hang the mask then
pour 5-10 ml of water inside the mask and wait for an hour and check how much water has
passed through the layers. This is a simulation of water being like virus particles and
checking if it will penetrate through the mask’s layers. When it penetrates or leaks through
the mask and recorded every amount of time, it is safe to say that it is not safe when used
for an extended period. On the other hand, if the water does not leak through it even after
the time given time, the mask is safe. Referring to the Water-drop Test of the 1 st column of
checklist of FDA approved and non-FDA approved, the efficacy of the mask is tested based
on measuring the duration of time of each specific type of KN95 mask that could
potentially leak. While for the 2 nd column of checklist, it is another measure to check
through an observable sight and touch if the opposite end where water was poured could
exhibit dampness of the KN95 mask material. Lastly, the 3 rd column checklist measures
the amounts of brand KN95 masks that had been penetrated through.
Table 2.1: Fire match test (FDA approved masks)
KN95 Mask Is the mask At what distance Did the fire go off
considered enclosed where the lit flame when blowing? At
and hard to breathe of the candle starts what approximate
in and out? to flicker? distance was it
eventually lit off?

Yes/No 0.0 cm 0.0 cm

3M Yes 0 cm 0.0 cm
5D Yes 0 cm 0.0 cm
MC McBride Yes 0 cm 0.0 cm
GB2626-2006-AA No 0 cm 0.0 cm
LVTA Yes 0 cm 0.0 cm
Average 0 cm 0 cm

Table 2.2: Fire match test (non-FDA approved masks)

KN95 Mask Is the mask At what distance Did the fire go off
considered enclosed where the lit flame when blowing? At
and hard to breathe of the candle starts what approximate
in and out? to flicker? distance was it
eventually lit off?

Yes/No 0.0 cm 0.0 cm

Daddy’s choice No 0 cm 0 cm
purism
KN95 (3D) No 0 cm 0 cm
KN95 No 0 cm 0 cm
(Unbranded)
Powecam No 0 cm 0 cm
NAN QI XING No 0 cm 0 cm
Average 0 cm 0 cm

The fire match test is an experiment that requires a candle, and you must blow
through the mask with an objective to extinguish the flame. When extinguished it means
that the mask is not effective against the virus. In real life applications, the mask should
contain the air inside the mask, failure to keep the air within and letting out too much, the
mask will let the virus particles out thus it is not effective and letting too much air out.
When the fire is extinguished by blowing, it means that the mask is not filtering air coming
in and out of the mask and it will increase the chances of infection. Looking at the
experiment of Fire-match Test with the 1 st column of the checklist ensures the universal fit
of the KN95 mask to be the requirement of enclosement when trying to inhale and exhale
out of the air to be effective that the aerosols is not being spewed out elsewhere. For the
2 nd checklist for it to work is to be secluded in a closed room with no ventilations to avoid
any unnecessary flickering from flame of the candle, so it may be easily distinguishable by
observable movement of the flame when it was through the exhalation of air in the mouth.
Finally, as for the 3 rd checklist it applies to additional testing if there were more than just a
flicker could affect the behavior of the lit flame that might be blown off. Both FDA and
non-FDA approved masks provided results that render both categories effective. FDA
approved KN95 masks did not let the air extinguish the flame. And it is the same for the
non-FDA mask, it did not let it at least flicker.

Through the Performing procedure of the tests on both FDA and non-FDA masks,
it is highly evident that the FDA masks are much safer and effective than the non-FDA
approved KN95 masks. Experimenting on the FDA approved KN95 masks, it did not leak
any water out and at the same time the opposite end of the mask is not wet. Usually, KN95
masks have 3-5 layers, and when counting how many layers were penetrated by water, the
first layer was only penetrated. On the contrary, the non-FDA approved masks displayed
bad results. Most of the water leaked through the mask therefore proving it to be less
effective. In other masks, in the first 5 mins the water leaked through it. There were 4 out
of 5 non-FDA KN95 that let the water leak through the mask, and it was wet on the opposite
end. Only one Non-FDA mask survived through the test without leaking anything water
although upon checking the layers it has went through, it went through 2 out of the 4 layers.
Both FDA and non-FDA approved masks provided results that render both categories
effective. FDA approved KN95 masks did not let the air extinguish the flame. And it is the
same for the non-FDA mask, it did not let it at least flicker.
Distribution of respondents of the study

Chart 1: Section Distribution of Respondents

Chart 1 shows the visual distribution of respondents according to what grade 12

STEM section they are in. The results imply that most of the respondents are from SSC,
and the least are from SPA. Specifically, with a total sample size of 87, there are 30
respondents from SSC, and there are 25 respondents from STA, and there are 19
respondents from SPB, and there are 12 respondents from SPA.

SSC: 31%

SPA: 15%

SPB: 28%

STA: 26%

Other (test): 1%
 Chart 2: Age Distribution of Respondents

Chart 2 shows the visual distribution of respondents according to what age group
they are in. The results imply that most of the respondents are from the age 17 and 18, and
the least are from the age 16. Specifically, with a total sample size of 98, there are 64
respondents (65.00%) from the age 17 and are 26 total respondents (27.00%) from the age
18, and only 6 respondents (6.00%) for age 16.

6 total respondents for 16 years old: 6%

64 total respondents for 17 years old: 65%
26 total respondents for 18 years old: 27%
 Chart 3: Distribution of Responses on Question 3

Chart 3 shows the results of the answers of the respondents with questions related
to satisfaction with the mask. Based on 5 indicators, 68(69%) students rated between 4-5
meaning they were comfortable with their KN95 masks. While only 9(8.82%) respondents
rated 1-2 meaning they were uncomfortable with their KN95 masks.

33 (32.34%) respondents – 5

35 (34.3%) respondents – 4

21 (20.58%) respondents - 3

5 (4.9%) respondents – 2

4 (3.92%) respondents – 1
 Chart 4: Distribution of Responses on Question 4

Chart 4 shows the visual distribution of respondents according to how often they
use KN95 masks. The results imply that 47.1% of the respondents rated between “4-5”.
Specifically, with a total sample size of 98, 25 chose 5, 23 chose 4, 18 chose 3, 19 chose
2, 13 chose 1 and 3.29 being the average number.

1 – 13 respondents (12.74%)
2 – 19 respondents (18.62%)
3 – 18 respondents (17.64%)
4 – 23 respondents (22.54%)
5 – 25 respondents (24.5%)
 Chart 5: Distribution of Responses on Question 5

Chart 5 shows the visual distribution of respondents according to how they got their
KN95 masks. The results imply that 74(76%) of the respondents responded, “provided by
pharmaceutical companies”, “we bought it online”, and “drug stores”. Specifically, with a
total sample size of 98, 24 respondents responded, “Bought by parents”, “parents are the
ones”, “provider for masks”, etc.

74 respondents – “I just got this from my parents”, “NA”, “mom”, “provided by

pharmaceutical companies”, and “drug stores”.
24 respondents – “bought by parents”, “parents are the ones”, “provider for
masks”, “masks or cloth”, “KN95 mask”, “online bought”, “ordered online”, “online
store”, “bought it online”, “bought from the pharmacy”, “drug store”, “extra mask”,
“surgical mask”.
 Chart 6: Distribution of Responses on Question 6

Chart 6 shows the visual distribution of respondents according to what their KN95
masks are. The results imply that 81(%) of the respondents responded, “I’m not familiar
with that”, “N/A”, “3m”. With a total sample size of 98, 24 respondents responded ”,
“powecom KN95”, “OEM”, “McBride”, etc.

81 respondents – “Not familiar with that”, “N/A”, “3m”

17 respondents - “indoplas Philippines”, “unbranded”, “indoplas KN95”, “not sure”,
“Korean brand”, “generic brand”, “powecom KN95”, “OEM”, “McBride”, “soom lab”,
“specific brand”, “idk”, “Ltd hoplon”, “unbranded”
 Chart 7:

Chart 7 shows the visual distribution of each rating of KN95 masks. The results
infer that Indoplas KN95 mask is the most approved among all the masks in terms of
universal fit, while the least approved mask is LVTA non-FDA KN95 mask according to
the respondents of our survey. There is a huge gap of approval between FDA and non-FDA
approved KN95 masks.

3M-FDA approved - 58
Wwdoll/Cheng-De-FDA Approved - 14
Mcbride-FDA Approved - 4
Indoplas-FDA approved - 66
Powecom-FDA - 15
Cigilena-non-FDA - 5
Athlene-non-FDA approved - 5,
DNW-FDA approved - 5
LTD Hoplon-FDA approved - 5
macro care-non-FDA approved - 5
LVTA-non-FDA -approved - 3
GB2626-2006-non-FDA approved - 5
Ray shine-non-FDA-approved - 5
 The first 2 chart shows the demographics of the respondents that answered the
survey. We can observe that most of the STEM students are respondents from section SSC,
with STA coming at a second, SPB with at third, and finally SPA with the least answered.
The second chart shows the age of the respondents, only a small percentage of the
respondents from Grade 12 STEM are 16 years old, with 17 years old being the most sitting
at 64% of the respondents and some being 18 years old at 26% of the respondents.

For the Likert scale questions, we can observe that each person has varying
feedback towards their KN95 masks. The total average of the respondents answered
question 3 of their satisfaction towards the masks comfort, was 3.87 average rounded off
to 4, which can imply that most of the respondents find their KN95 masks comfortable and
are satisfied with its comfort and fit. As seen only a total of 8 respondents rated the comfort
of the masks of 1 or 2 ratings. Question 4 however observes an equal spread of ratings for
how often the respondent's user their KN95 masks, as seen in the bar graph of question 4,
the respondents are divided evenly of the ratings, 2, 3, 4, and 5. There are a few variables
that could affect these results such as some of the respondents not going out commonly and
thus do not get to use their mask as common as they would have if they did.

Finally, the open-ended questions which are numbers five and six. Respondents
will answer questions where there are too many answers for them to be limited to certain
ones, but for the general, question 5 asks where the respondents got their KN95 mask, we
see the answers range from unknown due to their parents being the one to buy these, and
some answering online shopping sites such as Shopee, or Lazada. Meanwhile question 6
contains answers that ask which brands of KN95 masks the user's bought and used. About
17% of the respondents claim that their KN95 masks are from Indoplas brand, 3M brand
of KN95 masks comes in for second in most frequent brand, finally the one with only a
few of which the respondents answered is POWECOM and McBride.
Interpretation and Discussion of Results

In the water drop test, within 1 hour, 10mL of water will be poured on the KN95
masks. The mask is considered effective if there were no water leaks after an extended
period. As seen in the table presented earlier, the 0 mins indicates that the KN95 mask was
able to block all the water particles and there were no water leaks after 1 hour or more. The
average time for the FDA approved masks is 0 mins, while the average time for the
different non-FDA approved KN95 masks is 23.4 mins. Therefore, it indicates that the
FDA approved KN95 masks are more effective than the non-FDA approved KN95 masks
and that there is a significant difference between the different FDA and non -FDA approved
KN95 masks. The FDA masks are highly effective in holding the water as 4 out of the 5
masks presented remains dry in their end and it can only be penetrated by one layer of the
mask, while in non-FDA approved KN95 masks, 1 out of 5 presented remains dry in their
end and most of their protection layers can be penetrated by the water as based from the
data, a range of 2-5 protection layers were penetrated on different non-FDA approved
masks. Overall, by doing this experiment, it shows that using FDA approved KN95 masked
is recommended and effective for the users and buyers.

The fire match test overhand shows that by wearing the mask first and then blowing
through the mask, if the fire flickers from the match, then it shows that the mask is
ineffective, however, if the fire did not flicker, it shows that the used mask is recommended
to wear and considered to be effective. FDA approved masks are hard to breathe in and
were able to make the candle flicker but unable to blow off with the longest distance being
25 cm. non-FDA masks on the other hand are easy to breathe in and just like the FDA
masks cannot blow of the candle except that it cannot also make the candle flicker. This
comes to show that although both non-FDA and FDA masks cannot make the candle blow
off and instead flicker, this comes to show that breathability is the main factor in
determination because if the ask is breathable, small viruses and other small particles may
enter the body through breathing.
 To connect this with universal fit, a chart is going to help determine it, presented
here are 13 different mask brands which contain 7 different FDA approved masks and 6
non-FDA approved masks. In this chart it also shows how many respondents answered the
Likert scale ranging from 1-5. By viewing this chart, it could be made out that for the FDA
approved masks majority of the respondent answered 4 and the brand name of this mask
“3M” with “Indoplas” topping of second place as most rated mask. For the non-FDA
approved masks on the other hand all responses are equal to one which shows th at FDA
approved masks are more recommended to buy and use than the non -FDA approved masks
and the 3m KN95 mask is the most effective in terms of universal fit according to the
respondents of our survey.

During the data collection of the water drop test experiment, the researchers noticed
and observed that the different FDA and non-FDA approved masks have enough protection
that most KN95 masks did not showed any water drop leaks, while some released small
water leaks which is impossible for the researchers to measure the volume for the water
drop test, instead the researchers decided to use the duration of time of when the different
KN95 masks started to leak to indicate the effectiveness of different FDA and non -FDA
approved KN95 masks for the water drop test.
 Chapter 5
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION
This chapter presents the conclusions and recommendations of the study.

Summary of Findings

There are 2 experiments that this research has conducted which are the water drop
test and the fie match test, these answer 2 specific questions: “What type of KN95 masks
are the most effective according to their materials? “and “What is the significant difference
between the different FDA and non-FDA approved KN95 masks?”. It is found out that by
conducting the water drop test experiments, FDA approved KN95 masks are more
recommended to use than using non-FDA approved masks, this is because the material
they are made off can hold the water and there is a significant difference between FDA and
non-FDA approved KN95 masks. Meanwhile the fire test conducted finds that although
both non-FDA and FDA approved masks cannot blow off the candle and instead flicker,
the breathability is found there because FDA masks covers every layer of the mask, and its
materials can resist viruses and small particles when going outside. Overall, by conducting
both experiments, FDA approved masks are more resistant to viruses and small particles
and can hold small droplets of water to be preventable from spreading disease (especially
when it comes from the mouth) A realization here is that the importance of doing these
experiments is that doing this will let you determine what mask is best suited for an
individual if he/she wants to stay safe and be prevented from infection.

Another valuable tool used in this research is the survey that contains Likert scale
and open-ended questions, this answers the question” How effective are the different types
of KN95 masks in terms of universal fit? “, this tool involves connecting the answers of
the respondents to the concept of “universal fit’ in all KN95 face masks. The first Likert
question talks about satisfaction with the respondent’s KN95 mask, and most responses go
to satisfactory or four with the second most responses go to very satisfied or five. The
second Likert scale question is the frequency or how often the respondents use their mask,
just like the first question most of them said that they always use them or five while the
second most responses are most of the time or four. Then there are 2 open ended questions
on where the participants get their mask and what brand it is, it ended up that most
responses said that they get their mask from online shopping sites and that they bought
FDA approved brand names like 3M and Indoplas indicating that using FDA makes is the
most recommended way to protect one’s health. A survey questionnaire like this gives a
realization from this survey is that although researchers cannot ask personally/face-to-face
about their KN95 mask, with 4 simple questions the universal fit can be determined by
using satisfaction and frequency usage questions.

Conclusions
With other KN95 masks being ineffective and not approved and recommended to
be used, many people are not aware of the effectiveness of different FDA approved and
non-FDA approved KN95 masks. The focus in this research and the researchers is to know
“the significant difference between the FDA and non-FDA approved KN95 masks”, “what
is the most effective KN95 masks based on its materials”, and “the effectiveness of these
KN95 masks in terms of universal fit”. With all the results and data gathered by the
researchers, the researchers have made a conclusion that there is a significant difference
between the different FDA and non-FDA approved masks, FDA approved KN95 masks
are the most effective based on its own materials, and Indoplas KN95 masks is the most
effective in terms of fit and comfortability of the mask. With the current data gathered and
the use of central mode of tendencies, the researchers were able to determine the answers
for the focus and questions of the study and the effectiveness of different FDA and non-
FDA approved KN95 masks. These results should represent the core objectives to
familiarize the intentions of the researchers’ hypothesis and findings.

According to the collected amount of survey data collection, it is reported that most
had at least a soothing comfort of the universal fit of the respondents' face masks choice.
As universal fit should be met with the important criteria of the efficacy of the appropriate
covering of nose and mouth to avoid contacts of exposure to aerosols of the virus. To the
known studies of which brands and the proper materials that are effective to be utilized
were the FDA Approved KN95 masks and according to respondents' answer is that they
are mediocrely satisfied with the use of KN95 masks. Additionally, the respondents’ ideal
choice of KN95 masks exceeded the expectations of the research that the huge majority
had fully understood and grasped of the significance, validity, advantage, and value of
using the FDA Approved KN95 face masks to protect against contamination. From this
assessment, these are quite certain that the problems people had already acknowledged the
KN95 mask that they have wondered about whether these are legitimate to preserve
effectiveness against the Sars-Cov-2 virus during these times of pandemic.

Recommendations

1. Find more data collection methods to avoid less quantitative data errors in the
research.
2. Expand on the quality and quantity of questions within survey
3. Avoid use of open-ended questions as answers will vary widely and some could be
illegitimate answers.
4. Distribute the survey questionnaires efficiently
5. Perform the experiments twice in order to avoid any systematic error that could
occur.

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Appendices

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=UomjToI7p021wqXfpj9UUJ3z_A

owvDxDonBxW-dAWl1UN0NKUzZKNzhDMDcwOUFHSTFYVldYSjhFSS4u