[xchcui]

Hi.
In the follow link:
https://shorturl.at/fvhwX
There is a description how to make surgical mask
meets the standard of N95 mask by sealing the sides with 2 rubber bands.
I wonder if it really gives a protection against airborne particles as N95 mask(at least close to),just by sealing it.
What about the fabric itself,Does the fabric of the surgical mask has the ability to protect against airborne particles like the fabric of the N95 mask,while the only problem of the surgical mask was the sealing issue(which now is solved by 2 rubber bands)?

[marquis]

Standard issues.  They only tested 40 subjects, no long history, no statistical data, etc.  Very interesting paper.  Has anyone taken it any further?

If not, then good to use in an emergency, but other than that... You are taking a major chance. 

[xchcui]

Standard issues.  They only tested 40 subjects, no long history, no statistical data, etc.  Very interesting paper.  Has anyone taken it any further?

If not, then good to use in an emergency, but other than that... You are taking a major chance. 

Hi marquis.
And this is the reason,why i was asking this question.
I would like to know if the N95 have a special fabric that is superior compare to the surgical mask's fabric?and if the surgical mask is capable to filter the minimum airborne particles(0.3 micron or at least 2.5 microns)as the N95 mask?
I understand that there isn't long history data and it is better to go with the approved one,
But if the surgical mask's fabric is capable to filter this airborne particles size and the rubber bands will give 100% seal,what other reasons,that related to the surgical masks fabric design,can rule out its use?(besides the testing issues).

[Borek]

No way to tell without testing.

One thing worth remembering is that different fabrics will have different tendency to get clogged by the dust, and clogged fabric can make breathing difficult. I would expect dust masks to behave better in that area as that should be part of their design (whether they do is an entirely different question).

[xchcui]

The only test that i found was in the link i attached before,which i understand it lacks of data etc.I don't have the equipments to do it myself,besides to make myself guinea pig and see how i will feel after this test(which i am not exciting to do).
Anyway,thanks for your responds.

[marquis]

Look up wikipedia "N95 respirator".  It will give,a good start, along with a number of references .  The refs include NIOSH and USP (as well as a  EPA one) and they give the specific monographs ( at least they did when this was referenced).  Hopefully, it will get you started.  Good luck.

[xchcui]

Thanks,marquis.👍