Because they are regulated medical devices & new versions require FDA approval which can take months to obtain. 1/
- do a compositional side-by-side analysis of your mask vs all other masks currently sold. Hire a few materials scientists, okay.
- measure "tensile strength" & "impact resistance." Hire the Mythbusters and have them whack it with a hammer.
Just as the FDA waived its COVID-19 testing regs (after weeks of delay), it should waive its surgical mask/respirator regulations for the duration.