Abstract
The sorbent materials presently used in respirators include activated charcoal, soda lime, silica gel, molecular sieves, alkaline silicates, and impregnated charcoals. Design parameters of the sorbent bed which must be considered are baffling, tension on layers, packing uniformity, packing density, and both velocity and depth of bed. The selection of a sorbent depends on two groups of factors: (1) protection provided to the wearer, integrity of properties, and comparability with proposed use; and (2) subcritical factors such as cost, bulk, weight, and ease of manufacture. To be effective, the best respirator must still be worn and maintained properly.
