Partible Filtration Efficiency (PFE) Test

The Particle Filtration Efficiency (PFE) test is designed to evaluate the nonviable particle retention or filtration efficiency of filter media and other filtration devices against sub-micron particles. This test is conducted on face masks and all filter material which allows 1 cubic foot per minute (CFM) flow to pass through it.

STEMart provides comprehensive PFE test in accordance with the applicable EN standards for products to be marketed in Europe, ASTM standards for the United States and GB standards for the China.

Applicable Standards

• ASTM F2100 Standard Specification for Performance of Materials Used in Medical Face Masks
• ASTM F2299 Standard Test Method for Determining the Initial Efficiency of Materials Used in Medical Face Masks to Penetration by Particulates Using Latex Spheres
• EN 143 Respiratory Protective Devices-Particles Filters-Requirements, Testing, Marking
• EN 149 Respiratory Protective Devices-Filtering Half Masks to Protect Against Particles-Requirements, Testing, Marking
• GB 2626
• GB/T 19083
• GB/T 32610

Test Procedure

• Creation of a particle aerosol at 0.1 µm, 0.3 µm, 0.5 µm and 1.0 µm, 3 µm and 5 µm sizes
• Detection of aerosol concentration in the measurement chamber with a submicron particle counter
• Detection of aerosol concentration in the chamber downstream of the test filter media
• Comparison of the concentration measurements before and after filtration by the filter media

STEMart provides a accurate PFE test to evaluate the filtration efficiency of filter media and other filtration devices at sub-micron levels. If you want to learn more detail about our service, or would like to consult with the experts at STEMart, please feel free to contact us.