A Parameterization Study of Sew-EZ Materials: Types #6 and #8

Abstract

Two material types identified by Sew-EZ were tested in various configurations, and under various conditions, by Sandia National Laboratories (SNL). The primary focus of this study was to assess the filtration performance of these two materials and identify if they perform similarly to certified N95 respirators. Testing was conducted on two systems which use distinctly different techniques to characterize the aerosol penetration characteristics of materials: a) R&D Filtration System: A large-scale R&D filtration system was used with testing parameters that mimicked NIOSH guidelines, where possible. Efficiency data as a function of particle size was attained using NaC1 as the test aerosol and a Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer (SMPS) for measurements. A more detailed system description can be found in Omana et al. 2020. b) Automated Tester: A commercial, automated filter tester (100Xs, Air Techniques International) was used to provide penetration/efficiency data for Sew EZ materials. The 100Xs aerosolizes a polydisperse NaC1 aerosol with a consistent concentration and size profile. The 100Xs manual (Air Techniques International 2018) states, "The aerosol particle size and distribution are designed to meet all requirements as defined in the relevant sections of NIOSH 42 CFR, Part 84 (pg. 32)."