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NIOSH Standad For Face Mask Filter Test
2020/07/15
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Sodium Chloride Aerosol Challenge
The Sodium Chloride Aerosol Challenge test is able to determine filtration efficiency measurements up to 99.999%. In this procedure, the TSI? CERTITEST? Model 8130 Automated Filter Tester reservoir is filled with a 2% NaCl solution.* The sample is placed into the filter holder. Cone or molded masks and respirators are mounted to a test fixture and sealed into a cylinder filter holder to ensure that the mask is properly sealed.
Samples are subjected to aerosolized NaCl. The concentration of NaCl is measured before and after impact with the sample. The amount of NaCl that passes through the sample is used to calculate the filtration efficiency of the sample.
Respirators for NIOSH pre-qualification are required to be preconditioned at 85 ± 5% RH and 38 ± 2.5°C for 25 hours prior to assessing the filtration efficiency.
There are three categories for NIOSH-certified, nonpowered, air-purifying, particulate-filter respirators: N (Not resistant to oil), R (Resistant to oil), and P (oil Proof).
*Only N-series filters are evaluated using a NaCl aerosol, which is slightly degrading to filter medium. Test articles intended to be resistant to oil (R-series) or oil proof (P-series) must be evaluated using an oil-based aerosol.
Test articles submitted for testing according to NIOSH requirements will be tested according to 42 CFR Part 84 “Approval of Respiratory Protective Devices.”
Dioctyl Phthalate (DOP) Challenge
The DOP aerosol test is a widely accepted method for evaluating particle penetration and air flow resistance properties of a variety of filtration materials (e.g., breathing system filters, NIOSH respirators and face masks). The procedure employs an aerosol of DOP using a TSI? CERTITEST? Model 8130 Automated Filter Tester.
Test articles are challenged with particles of the most penetrating particle size range, 0.3 ?m.
Filtration efficiency measurements can be determined up to 99.999%. Samples can be tested at flow rates up to 90 liters per minute (LPM). The filtration requirement for HEPA filters is 99.97% at 0.3 ?m using the DOP test.
Inhalation, Exhalation, and Valve Leak Tests
In addition to NaCl and DOP tests, mask manufacturers may be required to demonstrate inhalation, exhalation, and valve leak tests in conformance with 42 CFR Part 84 and NIOSH procedures.
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