Filter for respirator mask or other filtering applications

A filter configured for use with a protective mask, said filter comprising:

• a container including an interface for removably securing the filter to the exterior of the protective mask;
• a first mechanical filter screen disposed between an interior of the container and atmosphere;
• a second mechanical filter screen disposed between an interior of the container and an inner volume of the protective mask;
• and
• a filtering medium disposed in the container, said filtering medium comprising active particles that are loose, substantially uniform in size, and derived from a polymeric precursor,
• wherein, the active particles comprise metallic additives and organic additives,
• a ratio of standard deviation of the active particles' dimensions compared to an average particle dimension is less than 0.35, and
• the polymeric precursor comprises at least one of polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), a PVDC copolymer, or a PVDF copolymer.

A process for making a filter, comprising:

• providing a container including a filter interface for removably securing the filter to the exterior of the protective mask;
• providing a first mechanical filter screen disposed between an interior of the container and a gas intake of the filter;
• providing a second mechanical filter screen disposed between an interior of the container and the filter interface;
• and
• disposing a filtering medium in the container, said filtering medium comprising active particles that are loose, substantially uniform in size, and derived from a polymeric precursor,
• wherein, the active particles comprise metallic additives and organic additives,
• a ratio of standard deviation of the active particles' dimensions compared to an average particle dimension is less than 0.35, and
• the polymeric precursor comprises at least one of polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), a PVDC copolymer, or a PVDF copolymer.