Face Off: 3D Printed Masks as a Cost-Effective and Reusable Alternative to N95 Respirators: A Feasibility Study

The N95 filtering facepiece respirator (N95 respirator or N95 mask) was first patented in 1995 by Taiwanese-American Peter Tsai1. This mechanical filter respirator, approved by National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), was designed to filter 95% of particulates (but not gases or vapors). Its efficacy is dependent on appropriate user usage and mask size and fit to ensure adequate seal, thus requiring regulated, yearly medical evaluations and fit testing.2. While originally designed for industry use, the N95 respirator is more effective than surgical masks in protecting the wearer from environmental pathogens3.
Source: The American Journal of Medicine - Category: General Medicine Authors: Tags: Clinical Research Study Source Type: research