Filters 90% of Harmful Airborne Particles at PM10 and 65% at PM2.5
Filtration
3M’s patented AEM™ (Advanced Electret Media) filter technology relies on the principles of electrostatic attraction. The high capture ratios and extended breathability attributed to 3M’s AEM™ material allow airborne particles to be captured within the filter. Rather than using a ‘screen’ approach to block the passage of particles, the charged fibers act as ‘magnets’ to retain particles while still allowing air to pass through — making O2 Nose Filters both breathable and effective.
The size of contaminants and particles are usually described in microns. There are 25,400 microns in one inch. When airborne, the Condensation Effect significantly increases the typical size of most particles. The size in the following chart is the “dry” particle size. The very smallest particulates take on H2O, increasing their perceived size by minimally 80% and as much as 1000% or even more dependent on conditions. For example, a 2.5μm size particle dry will be filtered wet at approximately 4.5μm minimum in size or larger.
What is Particulate Matter?
Particulate Matter (PM) is the name given to a complex bunch of small, microscopic pollutants that float in the air. PM is commonly measured in microns or a micrometer. One micron is one-millionth of a meter. Particulates are often divided into two basic groups based on their size: PM10 (coarse) and PM2.5 (fine). These include pollution, dust, pollen, pet dander, viruses, bacteria, mold spores, and more.
Particle Comparisons
Particulate Matter
Particulate Size*
O2 Filtration Efficiency
Particulate sizes shown in the chart above are typically given as the ‘dry’ size. Pollen, mold, bacteria, and viruses constantly absorb moisture from the air around them, which can significantly increase their size by 80-1000%*. The technical term for this process is the Condensation Effect. Since moisture can increase the size of particles, it further enhances the effectiveness of the filtration technology in O2 Nose Filters.