![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.jcjc.edu\/jcnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/ws-cpap-mask-in-benjis-hands2.jpg\")
<\/a>The prototypes the JC team developed is a compilation of files already tested by developers in Billings, Montana, and from others across the U.S. After consulting with local healthcare providers, Robertson and Kirk tweaked and modified their design by adding an adhesive type sealant around the edges of the mask. Other options are also being explored include modifying CPAP masks and designing a face shield to protect the eyes.<\/p>\n\u201cThe real question we faced was Using the 12, 3D printers in Kirk\u2019s lab, Robertson estimates they can produce at least 30 masks with removable filters each day. Plastic bands and the sealant would be added around the edges, once any fringe materials are removed. Using the 3D printers also allow Kirk and Robertson the option to easily adjust the size of the mask. Most importantly, Robertson said the JC developed masks are better than the CDC\u2019s minimum standard which is a bandana.<\/p>\n \u201c糖心直播 not only has the capability to provide something better than the minimum, but we also pride ourselves on giving back to our community. Our healthcare providers are on the frontlines of a war that could very well reach our doors, and I, along with many others, have a duty to help them.\u201d<\/p>\n The three faculty members report their creation is reusable, utilizing much less filter material, which can prolong the effectiveness of the plastic masks from a financial and safety aspect in comparison to the previously stated CDC minimum.<\/p>\n \u201cMost of the area hospitals and service providers are being proactive and are not in a critical supply need today,\u201d said Sessums.\u00a0 \u201cHowever, in four or five weeks from now, when supplies are decreasing, they are developing plans now for when they reach that point, to protect their employees. We are ready to answer their calls.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/a>what type of filter material should be used. We have lots of options because we\u2019ve been experimenting and testing different filters to go into the plastic masks,\u201d said Sessums. \u201cWe\u2019ve taken the current masks everyone uses and cut it into squares to make it last longer. We also tested the use of surgical drapes, which has a higher-grade filtration than the N95 filtered masks\u201d<\/p>\n<\/a>\u201cI don\u2019t want my friends and family members working around the Virus to have to rely upon just a bandana. What we are making is not replacing the mask, but we\u2019re offering a better option for emergencies,\u201d said Robertson, who feels indebted to healthcare providers after surviving pancreatic cancer.<\/p>\n