How Vitaflex Hood Provides Superior Protection

Stress-less elasticity, Ultrafine interstitial fiber openings and Water-repellent characteristic

Spunmelt nonwovens are made by laying down individual fine fibers to form the web. They have the typical characteristics of ultrafine interstitial fiber openings of 1-10 µm (spacing, gaps, or passageways) and great air permeability; therefore, they are widely used as barrier and filtration substrates for bouffant caps, diapers, masks, and filter bags.  In contrast, the knitted fabrics have much larger interstitial openings of 10-100 µm.

NaCl   aerosol testing is a widely accepted method for evaluating particle penetration and air flow resistance properties of a variety of filtration materials (e.g. breathing system filters, NIOSH respirators, and face masks). The procedure employs an aerosol of NaCl, using a TSI® CERTITEST® Model 8130 Automated Filter Tester.  Test specimens are challenged with particles of the most penetrating particle size range of 0.3 µm.  

The air-borne particulate inhalation is simulated by a test using 28.3 liters of air flow per minute.  Commonly used dust masks are not rated.  Surgical grade masks are tested with 3 µm particles to claim 95% filtration efficiency.   N95 has higher criteria for filtering 95% of 0.1µm particulates.  Particles that are commonly of concern are listed below for reference.

The Vitaflex Stretch Hood uses patented latex-free elastic spunbond nonwoven fabric with a quilted triple-layer structure.  When our hood was tested utilizing the NaCl aerosol method with an air flow of 5 liters per minute, the data show that the Vitaflex hood can effectively block 60% the minute particulates of 0.3 µm.  It can reach 80% efficiency by doubling the hood.   Common airborne particulates without pressurized force are rarely able to penetrate Vitaflex triple-layer structure. 

The VitaFlex Soft Stretch Hood is also superior to Cotton Socks in that it repels liquids due to the water-repellent characteristic of the polypropylene fibers it is made from.  However, if used in a wet environment, we recommend wearing multiple hoods, removing the outer hood if the moisture begins to seep through.

The Differential Pressure measurement of mm H₂O/cm² (ΔP) across the web structure is used as an indicator of Breathability.  A surgical mask is generally preferred to have a ΔP of less than 3.0.  Vitaflex triple-layer structure has a ΔP of 0.2.  In other words, the resistance to airflow is nearly nonexistent.

Caution!  The hood is not for replacing a mask if required by OSHA. Not FDA or NIOSH rated. Not for blocking toxic or bio-hazard gases, fumes, and vapors.  Not for blocking pressurized particles or liquid.  Not to be used near flames or in an environment of above 200 ˚F.