"The PPRS is much safer than the existing N-95 mask which does not protect the user if there is an imperfect seal between the mask and the face, as there is negative pressure inside the mask. In contrast, the PPRS provides uncontaminated air by using positive pressure. Thus, contaminated air from the room cannot enter the PPRS even in presence of any leakage,” Prof Tiwari said.
The N-95 respirator is only 95 percent efficient, as compared to the PPRS. Hence, it poses a risk of infection to health professionals working in isolation wards with a large number of Corona infected patients for longer durations. However, the PPRS eliminates this risk as well, Prof Tiwari added.
The PPRS is essentially made up of a comfortable and leak-proof transparent enclosure for mouth and nose, which receives positive pressure air from a portable, light, and wearable air-bottle. It also has a trolley-mounted oxygen cylinder. The device can deliver uncontaminated air for over six hours. It uses locally produced reliable one-way valves to avoid the inflow of contaminated air.
This PPRS device can be prepared in a very large number in a short span of time. The design team has also developed a product-process video, which can be viewed to manufacture the device locally.