Question 1

Will protect me against the zombie apocalypse?

Accepted Answer

No, this will not protect you against a zombie apocalypse as zombies are not created through airborne particles.  You need a different kind of protection that would protect you from bites, scrapes, etc... it might help if you smashed a zombie in the head with the filter but there are many other tools to help you in those situations.  I HIGHLY recommend this kit from Gerber for better protection: http://www.gerbergear.com/Apocalypse/Gear/Apocalypse-Kit_30-000601Good luck, and remember... don't stare at the flowers. ;)

Question 2

Can the filter be cleaned and reused?

Accepted Answer

Yes and no. The filter contains 2 elements...the chemical filter cartridge, and the P100 particle filter material. For the chemical cartridge, it will eventually lose it's ability to filter hazardous chemicals...after 3 years from the manufacture date, after maybe a few weeks upon breaking the package seal ( depending on storage environment), after 8 hours of exposure to chemicals ( depending on chemical type and concentration). Bottom line is it cannot be "reused" to filter hazardous chemicals after it ceases doing so effectively.

The particle filter actually increases in effectiveness as it becomes loaded with particles. The point at which the particle filter must be replaced is when it becomes difficult to breath through, or when it is contaminated with a hazardous substance and cannot be decontaminated.

If using to filter pathogens, the particle filter can be disinfected with hydrogen peroxide (3%-7% H2O2 1 min or more contact time) and used until breathing becomes difficult. Spray with H2O2 until wet and keep wet for at least 1 minute, and allow to dry fully before using again.

Just note, it will no longer filter hazardous chemicals and can be used to filter particles only, and should be marked as such.

If the contaminant is a hazardous substance like asbestos, lead or a chemical, discard the filter using appropriate HAZMAT protocols after 1 use.

Question 3

Why are they pink?

Accepted Answer

From the 3M Cartridge Filter Guide and Brochure: 
"Why are the filters and cartridges 'pink'?
When a filter or cartridge has the magenta color code it has
the P100 designation. This color provides uniformity and
easy identification."

Question 4

Would this work with cigarette smoke. I cant get a family member to quit and I don't want to breathe their carcinogenic  smoke

Accepted Answer

Short Answer: 
3M N100 Mask filters out 99.97% of particles larger than 0.3-Microns (PM2.5 means 2.5-microns or larger). A 3M N100 Mask works well against cigarette smoke and smog covered cities.

Longer Answer: 
Your concern is with PM2.5. See explanation below:

The most harmful pollutant to human health is called PM 2.5, particle matter smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter that's found in soot, smoke, and dust. PM 2.5 is especially dangerous because it can get lodged in the lungs and cause long-term health problems like asthma and chronic lung disease.

PM 2.5 starts to become a major health problem when there is more than 35.5 micrograms (µg) of PM 2.5 per cubic meter of air, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. But the World Health Organizations recommends keeping yearly average PM 2.5 levels three times lower than that.

The most polluted cities on Earth have anywhere between 11 and 20 times that amount - based on the new WHO data from cities that collect it.

Top 15 Cities in the world with unclean air:
https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.businessinsider.com/the-cities-with-the-worlds-worst-air-pollution-who-2016-5

3M Respirator Selection Help:
https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/safety-centers-of-expertise-us/respiratory-protection/respirator-selection/

3M Half/Full Respiratory Guide:
https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/company-us/all-3m-products/~/All-3M-Products/Personal-Protective-Equipment/Reusable-Respirators/?N=5002385+8711017+8720539+8720550+3294857497&rt=r3

3M Disposable Respirator Guide:
https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/company-us/all-3m-products/~/All-3M-Products/Personal-Protective-Equipment/Disposable-Respirators/?N=5002385+8711017+8720539+8720542+3294857497&rt=r3

Sincerely,
Jacob
My YouTube Channel: SurvivalGeek
11-02-2017

Asin	B009POHLRC
Best Sellers Rank	#3 in Respirator Cartridges & Filters
Date First Available	September 1, 2004
Department	Safety
Item Model Number	60926
Manufacturer	3M
National Stock Number	4240-01-455-7370
Product Dimensions	4.2 x 1.75 x 3.4 inches; 10.08 ounces

3M Multi Gas Vapor Cartridge/Filter P100

Details

Details

Description

Specifications

Common Questions