Air Pollution Face Mask

| Type | Medical Supply |
|---|---|
| Authors | Pieter Evert de Jager Pradita Pradhan |
| Location | Nepal |
| Environment | Himalayas |
| Status | Deployed |
| Verified by | Field Ready |
| Years | 2018 |
| Made | Yes |
| Tools | Knife |

The Air Pollution Face Mask is a locally fabricated respiratory mask designed to
protect the wearer from inhaling particulate matter, including airborne microorganisms, fumes, vapors, and gases. It was developed as a low-cost alternative to commercial respirators in settings where they are unavailable, damaged, or unaffordable.
The mask body is constructed from a repurposed PET bottle, cut and shaped using a knife to form the face-covering shell. It features two circular inlet ports, into which filter cartridges are fitted, along with an elastic strap that secures the mask around the head.

| Making instructions | https://www.appropedia.org/File:EE002_Manual.pdf |
|---|---|
| Hardware license | CERN-OHL-S |
| Certifications | Start OSHWA certification |
| More Product Information | |
|---|---|
| Author Code | EE002 |
| Documentation License | CC-BY-4.0 |
| Open Hardware License | CERN |
| Start Date (Development) | February 16, 2018 |
| End Date (Development) | February 16, 2018 |
| Designer | Pieter Evert de Jager |
| Maker | Pradita Pradhan |
| Main Materials | PET Bottle |
Readiness Levels
[edit | edit source]Levels are identified based on this reference: Field Ready Readiness Levels
| Readiness Criteria | Level |
|---|---|
| Field Readiness | 5 |
| Maker Readiness | 4 |
| User Readiness | 4 |
| Tech Readiness | 5 |
| Risk Readiness | 5 |
Manuals
[edit | edit source]Field Ready develops manuals to support both the fabrication and safe use of its products. A maker manual provides step-by-step instructions for replicating the design, including materials, tools, and assembly guidance, so that makers in different locations can build the product accurately and consistently. A user manual, where applicable, explains how to properly set up, use, and maintain the product once it is built, helping ensure it performs safely and as intended for the end user. Together, these manuals make the design accessible to both fabricators and the people who ultimately rely on the product.
| Authors | Charles Vincent Barrete |
|---|---|
| License | CC-BY-SA-4.0 |
| Location | Nepal |
| Organizations | Field Ready |
| Cite as | Charles Vincent Barrete (2026). "Air Pollution Face Mask". Appropedia. Retrieved September 4, 2026. |