FAQ: AMD P2 Nano-Tech Particulate Respirators
Please find below a range of frequently asked questions about P2 face masks that we hope will answer all your queries. If you have any other questions, you can email us on hello@aussiepharmadirect.com.au or call 1300 783 113 and we would be happy to assist.
Disposable P2/N95 face masks (also known as P2 or N95 respirators) are able to filter out very fine particles from the air when worn correctly. They are designed to seal over the bridge of the nose and mouth, so there are no gaps between the mask and the face.
They offer a different level of protection compared to surgical and cloth masks, which are simply designed to protect the wearer from droplets or splashes and large particles. Whilst they offer some respiratory protection, they do not offer the superior filtration levels of a P2 face mask. And because cloth and surgical masks are not fitted to the face, they allow air to escape and enter around the top and sides.
The only difference between a P2 and a N95 face mask is the region of classification and its testing requirements. P2 is Australian, N95 is American, KN95 is Chinese, and FFP2 is European. The standard of protection however, remains the same.
It is important to note that although they can carry the classification, it does not mean they are manufactured in that country. Some P2 or N95 face masks are made overseas and some have been proven to be defective, so it is important to buy Australian made, as they are regularly tested by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to ensure they are compliant.
Pre-existing melt-blown filters used in most other P2 masks and surgical masks use static electricity to attract particles to the fabric. As a characteristic of static, when these masks are exposed to moisture due to breathing or from external factors, the filtering efficiency drops drastically. They are not as comfortable or breathable and typically offer between 95-98% filtration efficiency. They also need to be changed every few hours and do not have a long shelf life.
The Australian manufactured AMD P2 Nano-Tech Respirator is like a personal air purifier made from four layers of extremely fine nano-fibres which offer ≥99.66% Particle Filtration Efficiency (PFE) and ≥99.92% Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE).
The densely tangled nanostructure of the filter allows a single mask to be worn comfortably for up to 24 hours, offering long lasting protection and excellent breathability. Because of the nanotechnology used to make them, they are easy to breathe in and continue to filter out particles even if they become damp, unlike a traditional P2 face mask with a meltblown filter
The AMD P2 Nano-Tech Particulate Respirator nanofilter is 0.05 - 0.1µm (microns) which is larger than an air particle, but smaller than harmful particles. Therefore can block fine particles and virus.
AMD P2 with nanofibre filter 0.05 - 0.1µm
Viruses, germs, Covid-19 0.1 - 10µm
P2 with meltblown filter 0.3 - 0.6µm
Do not wear a mask with a valve as the wearer can still breathe out the virus. While it allows the wearer to breathe out more easily and stop moisture from building up, it allows transmission of the virus if infected. Choose a P2 face mask that still functions whilst damp (like the AMD one) and you can breathe comfortably and remain protected.
These are considered a medical device and have an ARTG listing. For the safest way to use them and prevent contamination, it is recommended they are only used once, and then disposed of. If you touch, adjust or remove your mask, you must wash or sanitise your hands. Refer to directions for use.
Due to the nanofibre filter they are made from, they can be worn continuously for up to 24 hours. Surgical masks and most other P2 masks have a meltblown filter which means you need to change them every few hours.
Ensure the nose bridge strip is at the top. Unfold the mask while holding onto the edges and position it over your nose and mouth. Place one ear loop over each ear and pull it under your chin. Mould the nose bridge to your nose and you’re set.
The masks are a standard size so those with smaller faces may need to tie a little loop in each ear loop to make sure the mask forms a good seal around the face. Or you can use some mask extenders (link to new product coming this week).
To get the best fit you may need to adjust the mask by moving it slightly up or down your nose and make sure your glasses go over the top. Whilst this works for most people, ear savers may help you to achieve a better fit.
Our customers who wear hearing aids have said they are easy to put on and remove. However, ff this is still difficult, mask extenders will help. (link to new product coming this week)
While it’s great to have ear loops, because of the ease of putting on and removing the masks, some people who wear masks for long periods may start to get sore behind their ears. If this is you, mask extenders will be a good solution for you.
This is because they are made with cutting edge nano-technology. The nanofibre filter makes them light and comfortable, yet highly efficient.
Yes, the AMD P2 masks have been tested with independent laboratory VicLab in Victoria AS/NZS 1716:2012 . Plus have an ARTG listing with the TGA - ARTG #335981View all certifications here
Right now we only have the standard size which fits most people. We will be introducing a larger size soon. Please sign up to our newsletter to keep informed. We may introduce another colour, depending on demand.
They are manufactured in the AMD factory in Baulkham Hills in Sydney.
It is not mandatory for children to wear a mask under the age of 12. However, the AMD P2 mask usually fits children over 10. They may need mask extenders to get a good fit.
AMD P2 masks are recommended by the TGA for single use. The advice is they are not to be recycled as they may contain pathogens (e.g. bacteria and viruses).
The masks have a life span of 3 years from the manufacture date.
The material is a Nano fiber filter which is "spun-bond non woven fabric, raw material polypropylene" Non-woven polypropylene is also used in filters for air, gas, liquids and also in other products such as nappies and sanitary pads. The thin layers of extremely fine polypropylene fibres work to block respiratory emissions.