---
author:
- 'R. Perić$^{\dagger}$'
- 'M. Perić'
title: 'Analytical and numerical investigation of the airflow in face masks used for protection against COVID-19 virus – implications for mask design and usage '
---

Introduction {#SECintro}
============

During the virus pandemic COVID-19 in 2020, several countries have either enforced or discussed whether wearing face masks should be compulsory in public places (Howard, 2020). Opposing arguments include that masks should be reserved for healthcare workers and that the use of medical masks in the community may create a false sense of security (World Health Organization, 2020). However, the global shortage of masks may not persist indefinitely so that protective masks may become available to the public in future. Arguments in favor of using face masks for the general public include indications by several studies that face masks can reduce viral exposure and infection risks (e.g. van der Sande et al., 2008). Protective effects of masks were demonstrated for various severe infections such as SARS, tuberculosis and pandemic influenza (e.g. Andersen, 2019; Jung et al., 2014, and references therein) and also for dust, oil, or combustion-exhaust particles (Penconek et al., 2012; Ntlailane and Wichmann, 2019).

Virus transmission can occur via direct contact 