Abstract: Various embodiments of a filtering face-piece respirator are disclosed. The respirator can include a mask body that includes a collapsible zone disposed along at least a portion of a perimeter of the mask body and a reinforcing element disposed in an upper region of the mask body to define a reinforced zone of the mask body. The reinforced zone is at least partially surrounded by the collapsible zone.

Abstract: A filtering face-piece respirator (10) having a cup-shaped, molded mask body (20) and having integral nose pads (21, 26) provided by inwardly-folded tabs (41, 46), which tabs (41, 46) are integral extensions of at least one layer of the mask body (20).

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a shaped filtering face-piece respirator having a face seal that includes a water-vapor-breathable layer.

Abstract: A filtering face mask 10 that has a harness 14 and a mask body 12. The mask body 12 includes a filtering structure 18 and a cup-shaped shaping layer 20 where the latter comprises a closed cell foam layer that has a plurality of fluid permeable openings 22 located in it. The openings 22 are surrounded by recessed regions 31. The filtering structure 18 does not make substantial contact with the shaping layer 20 at the recessed regions. The shaping layer 20 makes contact with the wearer's face at the mask body perimeter 19 when the respirator is being worn. The use of a foam shaping layer that has openings surrounded by recessed regions provides sufficient structural integrity or stiffness to prevent mask body collapse during respirator use while also exhibiting a low pressure drop and rapid fluid distribution of air within the mask to allow for low breathing resistance and extended wearer comfort.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a shaped filtering face-piece respirator having a face seal that includes a water-vapor-breathable layer.

Abstract: A filtering face mask 10 that has a harness 14 and a mask body 12. The mask body 12 includes a filtering structure 18 and a cup-shaped shaping layer 20 where the latter comprises a closed cell foam layer that has a plurality of fluid permeable openings 22 located in it. The openings 22 are surrounded by recessed regions 31. The filtering structure 18 does not make substantial contact with the shaping layer 20 at the recessed regions. The shaping layer 20 makes contact with the wearer's face at the mask body perimeter 19 when the respirator is being worn. The use of a foam shaping layer that has openings surrounded by recessed regions provides sufficient structural integrity or stiffness to prevent mask body collapse during respirator use while also exhibiting a low pressure drop and rapid fluid distribution of air within the mask to allow for low breathing resistance and extended wearer comfort.

Abstract: A respirator 10 that includes a mask body 12 and at least one filter cartridge 24. The mask body 12 has a central portion 14 and a peripheral portion 16. The filter cartridge 24 is attached to the rigid central portion 16. The peripheral portion 14 is made from a low stiffness first thermoplastic material, and the central portion 16 is made from a rigid second thermoplastic material. The first thermoplastic material is welded to the second thermoplastic material. A respirator of this structure can be made in a convenient manner, with a sound hermetic bond between the parts, while also being light in weight.