This face mask will disable or kill pathogens, including viruses, with UV-C light.

The ordinary N-95 and other protective masks only try to filter out pathogens, as if they were simple particulate matter. Unfortunately, even a small percentage of a pathogen getting thru could be enough to infect you, so 95% may not be effective protection.

The '95' in the N-95 classification refers to its filtering efficiency. Plus it's for particles above 300 nanometers. The coronavirus is only 100nm, so has a good chance of making it through the material without getting snagged in the fibers.

The pictured prototype is the core unit in development. It will be incorporated into a formable-fit face mask with either a built in or separate power supply.