Gas mask

A gas mask is a mask worn on the face to protect the body from airborne pollutants and toxic materials, and also known as a respirator. The mask may cover the eyes and other vulnerable soft tissues of the face, and will always form a sealed cover over the nose and mouth.

Absorption and adsorption

Absorption is the process of being drawn into a (usually larger) body, or substrate, and adsorption is the process of deposition upon a surface. This can be used to remove both particulate and gaseous hazards. Although some form of reaction may take place, it is not necessary, the principle may work by attractive charges (for example if the target particles are positively charged, use a negatively charged substrate). Examples of substrates include activated carbon, and zeolites. This effect can be very simple and highly effective, for example using a damp cloth to cover the mouth and nose whilst escaping a fire. Most of the harmful vapours and smoke will be dissolved in the water on the cloth, giving you vital extra seconds to escape.

Related Topics:
Absorption - Adsorption - Reaction - Charges - Carbon - Zeolite - Smoke - Water

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