Hemodialyzer as Breathing Filter

thingiverse

The Demand: Health care professionals are being exposed to higher concentrations of SARS-CoV-2. Filtering the air and reducing virus exposure for them is a top priority. The Concept: Hemodialysis filter membranes have been optimized over decades, becoming extremely advanced. Our proposal combines these membranes with a snorkeling mask or breathing mask. When you breathe in, the air passes through the dialyzer membrane; when you exhale, the air exits directly through a mask valve. Multiple filters are arranged in parallel to make breathing effortless. It's well established that dialyzers can filter virus particles from liquids effectively. We assume this also applies to airborne virus particles - although we have no knowledge of this being tested previously! We're offering a simple setup for building your own breathing filter using a snorkeling mask, four hemodialysis filters, and some 3D printed components. Disclaimer: This concept has not been tested. We don't know if it works or if there are potential health risks associated with it. We assume no liability whatsoever. This idea is simply a concept shared in the midst of a severe global health crisis. We're sharing this as private individuals to help address this crisis. We're a group of experienced engineers working at Fresenius Medical Care, but this idea and its submission are entirely personal and unrelated to Fresenius Medical Care. The suggested application isn't the intended use of hemodialysis filters. Use at your own risk! Contact us: dialyzervsvirus@gmail.com