Analysis of Two Protection Strategies for Reducing Aerosol Expulsion from Wind Instruments
Baron M, Tur B, Köberlein M, Hermann LA, Gantner S, Echternach M, Kniesburges S (2025)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2025
Journal
Book Volume: 10
Article Number: 116
Journal Issue: 5
Abstract
(1) Background: the aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of two protection systems for aerosol cloud reduction while playing different wind instruments. (2) Methods: The protection systems used were a cotton molton construction combined with a bell filter attached at the bell of the instruments, as well as a household paper towel. For visualization of the emitted aerosol particles, e-cigarettes were used. With three full HD cameras, cloud dispersion was captured in the forward, sideways, and upwards directions. The effectiveness of aerosol spread reduction was statistically evaluated. (3) Results: Without protection, aerosol clouds dispersed, on average, up to 1.23 m in the forward direction, 0.46 m sideways, and 0.86 m upwards. The cotton molton mask reduced forward spread by 42%, while the paper towel achieved a 15% reduction, although both systems increased lateral and vertical dispersion. Specifically, the cotton molton mask yielded a 9% increase to the side and 7% in the upward direction, while the paper towel resulted in a 66% increase to the sides and a 10% increase in the upward direction. The cotton molton mask’s effectiveness was attributed to its additional coverage of the tone holes, which contribute to aerosol emission in woodwind instruments. A statistical analysis via the Friedman test confirmed significant reductions in forward dispersion with the cotton molton system. (4) Conclusions: Protective systems can partially reduce aerosol emissions. However, these alone are not sufficient, and further measures to reduce the spread of particles are necessary.
Authors with CRIS profile
Miriam Baron
Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine
Bogac Tur
Lehrstuhl für Hals-Nasen-Ohrenheilkunde
Stefan Kniesburges
Involved external institutions
Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Baron, M., Tur, B., Köberlein, M., Hermann, L.A., Gantner, S., Echternach, M., & Kniesburges, S. (2025). Analysis of Two Protection Strategies for Reducing Aerosol Expulsion from Wind Instruments. Fluids, 10(5). https://doi.org/10.3390/fluids10050116
MLA:
Baron, Miriam, et al. "Analysis of Two Protection Strategies for Reducing Aerosol Expulsion from Wind Instruments." Fluids 10.5 (2025).
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