Professor Hazem Kalaji from the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW) together with the virologist Dr Seiya Sato from the University of Pharmacy and Applied Life Sciences in Niigata, Japan, applied to the Japanese Patent Office (JPO) for a patent for the invention of a moss anti-virus half mask. 

As reported by the Warsaw University of Life Sciences, the invention concerns reusable anti-virus half-masks primarily against influenza viruses, but also due to their similar size against coronaviruses and ventilation mechanisms (elements) for buildings and vehicles made of moss that absorb viruses.

The moss is placed in a thin layer of transparent material that allows it to photosynthesize while the user is wearing the mask. The user’s breathing provides the moss with adequate moisture and carbon dioxide. The moss, in turn, provides the user with oxygen for breathing.