Description P100 = 99.97% Filtration effectiveness against oil & non-oil based particulates *3M™ Particulate Filters: Filters aerosols (e.g., dust, mists, fumes, smoke, biological particles, etc). Some filters also have nuisance-level gas and vapor capabilities. The cartridge may be used for vapor concentrations up to 10 times the PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) Respirators must fit tight, and create a COMPLETE seal Bearded users must be clean shaven to achieve a complete seal What the heck does P100 mean? Respirators are given rating based on the type and efficiency of filtering substances. There are a number of ratings, each starting with a letter to designate it’s effectiveness of oil. N – NOT resistant against oil or oil-based particles R – SOMEWHAT resistant to oil-based particles P – STRONGLY resistant to oil-based particulates That letter is than appended with a number (95, 99 or 100) to represent how effective the mask/cartridges filters particulates. Some examples include: N95 – Filters at least 95% of particulates, NOT resistant to oil. R95 – Filters at least 95% of particulates, SOMEWHAT resistant to oil. P99 – Filters at least 99% of particulates, STRONGLY resistant to oil. P100 – Filters at least 99.97% of particulates, STRONGLY resistant to oil.
