Activated Carbon for Personal Protection Mask

Activated carbon is often used in protective masks, mainly because it can effectively absorb harmful gases, odors and other pollutants in the air. Specifically, activated carbon has a very high surface area and can absorb chemicals in the air, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chlorine, sulfur dioxide, ammonia, etc. This makes it important in protective masks, especially for the protection against toxic or malodorous gases.

In addition, activated carbon is often used in combination with a filter layer to provide an additional layer of protection to block tiny particles such as dust, pollen, bacteria and viruses. In this way, the mask can provide more comprehensive protection.

1. Adsorption of harmful gases
Activated carbon has a rich microporous structure and a large specific surface area, which allows it to adsorb harmful gases in the air, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia.
In special cases, it can also adsorb certain low concentrations of toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide.
2. Remove odors
Activated carbon can absorb odor molecules in the air, such as smoke, industrial odors or chemical gas odors, thereby improving the wearing comfort of the mask.
3. Filtering particles
Although activated carbon itself is not a material primarily used to block particles, it is often used in combination with other filter layers (such as meltblown cloth) to improve the comprehensive protective performance of the mask.
4. Antibacterial performance (optional)
Some types of activated carbon are specially treated to give them antibacterial or antiviral properties, further improving the hygiene performance of the mask.

Types of activated carbon masks:
1. Ordinary dust masks (activated carbon layer)
Suitable for daily protection, mainly used to isolate particles and remove slight odors.
2. Industrial protective masks
Equipped with professional-grade activated carbon filters for dealing with harmful gases in chemical, paint or laboratory environments.
3. Medical activated carbon masks
In addition to the activated carbon layer, an antibacterial layer or other professional filter layers may be added for use in medical environments.

Notes:
Activated carbon masks are more suitable for environments with odors or volatile harmful substances. If it is only for protection against particles (such as PM2.5 or viruses), ordinary N95 masks may be more effective.
Replacement frequency
The adsorption capacity of activated carbon is limited and will become ineffective when saturated, so the mask needs to be replaced regularly.
Sealing
Ensure that the mask fits tightly to prevent polluted gases from entering from the edge of the mask.