Gas masks

Soldiers Wearing Gas Masks (1961)

Gas Masks are pieces of equipment that filter (often toxic) air, allowing its user to breath freely in hazardous environments.

Primitive Masks:

A basic mask can be made by soaking an item of clothing or other fabric in water or similar liquid. This does not guarantee filtration of many gasses but will block larger particles.

Charcoal Gas Masks:

Activated Charcoal Mask

Primarily used during the early 20^th century (most notably during WW1), activated charcoal gas masks work by filtering air through a metal canister (containing fine grain activated charcoal). The canister could be attached to an airtight mask, ensuring the user only inhales the filtered air.

Modern Masks:

Soldier Wearing Modern Gas Mask

Modern masks work similarly to their ww1 counterparts but with more layers of defence, allowing them to capture most toxic gases (such as ammonia and nerve agents ). First, larger particles are captured through a dense fibre mesh. Then, activated carbon filters gases through physical bonding. Finally, remaining gases are filtered by metal oxides.

Draw Backs:

- Gas masks cannot create oxygen and as such do not keep the user alive in low oxygen environments

- If you are using a primitive mask, you will not be protected from the majority of gasses and vapours. Taking this into consideration before use is key to survival