IdentificatLon of a System to Measure Gas Mask Leakage

The goal of the proposed research effort is to develop a cost-effective system capable of measuring leakage into gas masks being worn by Navy personnel. The ability to measure gas mask leak rates will greatly enhance chemical warfare training effectiveness, thereby increasing the level of protection that gas masks provide. The proposed system will also provide a sound basis for proper gas mask selection and issue. A new method for measuring leakage rates into industrial respirators has been developed. The method employs a controlled negative pressure (CNP) technique to eliminate many of the problems associated with systems based on the use of aerosol challenge agents, and is significantly faster and more precise. The objectives for Phase I are to conduct a comprehensive review of technologies that can be applied to the mask leak measurement problem. A specific set of criteria will be used to analyze advantages and limitations of each identified technology relative to the CNP concept. Information needed to define an acceptable leak criterion for gas masks will also be identified during Phase I. The product of Phase I research will provide a comprehensive basis for evaluating and selecting the most cost-effective system for measuring gas mask leakage.