Performance of Materials Used in ASTM F2100 Medical Facial Masks

The ASTM F2100 standard is a standard developed by the American Testing and Materials Agency (ASTM). The full name of this standard is as follows: ASTM F2100 - 19e1 Standard specification for the performance of materials used in medical face masks.

This standard describes classifications, performance requirements and test methods for materials used in the manufacture of medical face masks used during various health services, such as surgery and patient care. The following tests are mainly performed to determine medical face mask material performance: bacterial filtration efficiency, differential pressure, submicron particle filtration efficiency, resistance to synthetic blood penetration and flammability tests.

This standard does not address all aspects of medical face mask design and performance, the effectiveness of the mask regarding barrier and breathability, and respiratory protection required for some healthcare. It only describes the requirements and test methods for the materials used in making masks used during the delivery of health services such as surgery and patient care.

According to the ASTM F2100 standard guidelines, there are five basic performance requirements for medical face masks: bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE), particle filtration efficiency (PFE), fluid resistance, pressure difference (Delta P) and flammability.

In order to determine the performance of the materials used in the production of medical face masks, all face masks should be tested according to the standard series of biological evaluation of ISO 10993 Medical devices, which is an international standard for tests such as cytotoxic and skin sensitivity. These tests are carried out on materials such as the ties used for making their masks, elastic ear loops, anti-fog strips, and visor shields.

Within the scope of protective clothing tests, our organization provides performance testing services for materials used in ASTM F2100 Medical face masks.