Proposal and Prototype of a Disposable Mask Converted into a Simple Condenser Microphone Using Iron-on Conductive Fabric

Abstract

In this study, we propose and demonstrate a simple method for fabricating a condenser microphone by attaching iron-on conductive fabric to a commercially available disposable mask. We employ the “Easy-to-Use Wearable Conductive Fabric” developed by Mitsuya Co., Ltd. which allows users to fabricate a microphone quickly and inexpensively using only a household iron, without requiring specialized tools or technical expertise. This conductive fabric offers not only strong adhesion when ironed but also excellent flexibility and breathability, allowing the mask to retain its original comfort and disposability while easily acquiring microphone functionality. Given these characteristics, the proposed method is well-suited for practical use in wearable devices for daily life. The fabricated device functions as a condenser microphone with the conductive fabric and the nonwoven mask serving as electrodes and dielectric, respectively. Sound-induced vibrations cause changes in capacitance, which are detected as voltage variations. This study demonstrates that a fully functional microphone can be realized using only readily available materials and a straightforward fabrication process.