Improvised Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (iPAPR)
Collaborators
This project was done in collaboration with the National University Hospital, Singapore.
Background
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, subsequent worldwide disruptions, and increased demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) have forced healthcare providers to ration or improvise, even in developed countries.
Key Problem(s)
Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPR) are currently in high demand, with significant waiting times for procurement, and the price may be prohibitive. Traditional PAPRs are also bulky and have significant dead space in their long tubing.
Solution
We converted a full-face snorkel mask into an ultra-portable PAPR using cost-effective equipment and 3D printed adaptors. This was tested using an adapted version of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) guidelines for PAPR.
Publications and Press
Publications:
Project Contact
Yen Ching-Chiuan
didyc at nus.edu.sg
Team Members
Yen Ching-Chiuan
Eason Chow Wai Tung
Pravar Jain