Why is titanium dioxide used in textiles?
Titanium dioxide is widely used in the textile industry. Among other things, it is used to whiten textile fibres, to make them matt or to protect them from UV radiation and discolouration.
What are the risks of titanium dioxide (nano)particles in face masks?
Titanium dioxide particles are classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans if inhaled. In a recent opinion, EFSA also concluded that titanium dioxide can no longer be considered a safe food additive because damage to the genetic material of the consumer (genotoxicity) cannot be excluded.
Our study shows that (nano)titanium dioxide particles are present in the fibres of the examined face masks. However, we cannot yet assess to what extent these (nano)particles are actually released from the masks and constitute a risk for the wearers. We are working on new methods for this purpose. In the meantime, we have estimated the risk mathematically on the basis of a scenario where the face mask is worn intensively. However, we currently have no indication that titanium dioxide nanoparticles are released in large quantities. Given the large amount of titanium dioxide present in some masks, however, a potential health risk cannot be entirely excluded.
Does my face mask contain (nano)titanium dioxide particles and can they be released?
As part of the TiO2Mask project, we are testing a number of face masks for the presence of (nano)titanium dioxide particles. Titanium dioxide particles are classified as potentially carcinogenic to humans if inhaled. We are therefore investigating whether titanium dioxide (nano)particles can be released from masks and whether wearing these masks leads to exposure to (nano)particles via inhalation.
At the present stage of research, we can confirm that (nano)titanium dioxide particles are present in the face masks examined. However, we cannot yet comment on the possible release and exposure when using the masks. For this we need new measurement methods.
How much titanium dioxide is allowed in face masks?
There is no legal limit for the permitted amount of titanium dioxide in masks.
Do all masks contain the same amount of titanium dioxide and which ones are safe?
In this project we tested a limited number of face masks. All masks tested contain (nano)particles of titanium dioxide. The amounts vary greatly, from a few micrograms to 0.15 grams of titanium dioxide per mask. Broadly speaking, we can conclude that the smaller the textile fibres used and the denser the weave, the higher the amount of titanium dioxide.
However, it is impossible for the consumer to see with the naked eye or from the packaging which masks contain a lot or little titanium dioxide.
Is it safe to wear a face mask?
At the present stage of research, we can confirm that titanium dioxide particles, including nanoparticles, are present in the face masks examined. We cannot yet comment on possible release and exposure when using the masks.
However, we currently have no indication that titanium dioxide nanoparticles are released in large quantities and that wearing a face mask may lead to an increased health risk.
We also refer to the opinion issued by the Belgian Superior Health Council “Health risks associated with face masks treated with a silver-based biocide. Brussels: SHC; 2021. Report No. 9654” (available in Dutch and French). This opinion states that there is still a lot of uncertainty about the possible exposure and toxicity of silver and titanium dioxide nanoparticles, and that therefore the potential health risk of using face masks does not outweigh the benefit of using them to prevent COVID-19 contamination. In our current results, we see no acute elements that would contradict that opinion.
Should I worry if I have to wear a face mask all day?
At this stage of research, we can confirm that titanium dioxide particles, including nanoparticles, are present in the face masks examined. We cannot yet comment on possible release and exposure when using the masks.
The risk we have calculated is a risk based on a theoretical scenario, not on proven exposure. We currently have no indication that (nano)titanium dioxide particles are released in large quantities and that wearing a face mask may result in an increased health risk.
We also refer to the opinion issued by the Belgian Superior Health Council “Health risks associated with face masks treated with a silver-based biocide. Brussels: SHC; 2021. Report No. 9654” (available in Dutch and French). This opinion states that there is still a lot of uncertainty regarding the possible exposure and toxicity of silver and titanium dioxide nanoparticles, and that therefore the potential health risk of using face masks does not outweigh the benefit of using them to prevent COVID-19 contamination. In our current results, we see no acute elements that would contradict that opinion.
Where can I get my mask tested?
At the moment it is not possible to have masks tested for the presence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles as this requires a new testing method which is currently only performed at Sciensano. Our testing capacity is also limited and is used to the maximum for the assignments given by the authorities.
Where can I find the results of the TiO2Mask study?
The TiO2Mask project specifically investigates whether there are health risks due to the presence of (nano)titanium dioxide particles in face masks. Sciensano is using a new and innovative technique that is not used anywhere else. Moreover, there are currently few laboratories in Europe capable of carrying out such complex measurements.
On the TiO2Mask project webpage you will find an overview of the project and updates on the next steps of the research will be published as the TiO2Mask project progresses. The project has a duration of two years and is exploring new scientific territory in various fields. As a result, we cannot currently give any guarantees on the exact content and timing of future updates.
Which mask brands are still being tested and when will we have the results?
The aim of the current TiO2Mask project is not to test specific mask brands, nor all masks currently on the market. This is not feasible as it is a new testing method that is currently only applied at Sciensano and therefore the testing capacity is limited. The aim of our study is to check in a sample of masks on the market :
- whether (nano)titanium dioxide particles are present in the masks ;
- whether they can be released from the masks, and
- whether this release leads to exposure to titanium dioxide via inhalation.
The results of this research will be used to estimate the potential health risks and to help the government take appropriate action.
On the TiO2Mask project webpage you will find an overview of the project and updates on the next steps of the research will be published as the TiO2Mask project progresses. The project has a duration of two years and is exploring new scientific territory in various fields. As a result, we cannot currently give any guarantees on the exact content and timing of future updates.