Re-sealing protective (gas) masks for storage?

[projo198]

I've recently stocked up on Czech M10M gas masks. They are affordable, have a voice emitter and drinking system. Pretty much comparable to the US mask with the exception of the filter location.

On these masks there are 2 internal filters that are installed on either side of the cheek area. They are relatively difficult to install, and certainly not something you want to do under short notice.

Here is what I've done to hopefully retain or extend what life is left in these filters. Immediately after putting the pasks together I am vacuum sealing the entire thing with bags purchased on Amazon. Therefore the filters are only exposed to the air for a few moments.

Thoughts on effectiveness?

[Greatguns]

Does it make you sound like Darth Vader when you talk? If so I want one, LOL

[Onepoint]

I bet it does if you talk like Darth Vader while it's on.

[Lostinspace]

I'm going to chime in here.  For about 15 years I was in the PPE industry and sold millions of respirators and even designed some chemical suits that Reagan would not let me sell to Russia because they "could have" been used for chemical warfare which ended my dreams of retiring before I hit 30 years old.  The issue with respirators (aka gas masks) is that many of them use an activated or treated carbon or charcoal to absorb the dangerous gases.  Over time that medium can and will degrade.  If you want to vacuum seal it then it will probably help but my recommendation would be to buy new cartridges for it every 3-5 years depending on what the manufacturer says the expiration date on them is.

[projo198]

You guys are missing the point..... of course I sound like Darth Vader with it on!

Seriously though thanks for the input Lostinspace. There are actually 2 types of filters for this mask, riot control and NBC. When I ordered them the photo showed the white riot gear filters but I was pleased to see it arrive with the grey NBC ones. I have seen them for sale in lots and will be looking for some as you suggested.

[Danjal]

The filters only last for so long due to the oxidation. You need to get it out of there. Purging it with nitrogen, and other add ins can help degrade it, but figure once it's open it's on a timer. Even shelf life on most is limited. Even more so when actually used.