FAQ: Smart Cambridge Mask: You & Clean Air, Connected
For the most up-to-date information about the status of our project, check our project updates on Kickstarter!

What is the filter's lifespan?

For an average use in Beijing the masks last around 200 hours of use, around 3-6 months. The SmartValve tracks filter life carefully, so you won’t need to worry about monitoring filter level yourself.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

Where do I get a new filter?

The whole mask is made of filters, so once they are saturated you will need to purchase a new ordinary mask. The SmartValve easily clips on and off so you can swap over to your new mask in a few seconds.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

How does shipping work?

The SmartValve and Cambridge Mask are in separate packaging, but will be sent together. All pledge levels will be shipped at the same time.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

How well should the mask fit?

It is important to ensure you mask has a goof fit. We have added adjustable ear loops to newer model masks to help users ensure the best possible fit. The mask filters are tested to meet NIOSH N99 standards, meaning filtration of 99+% of particulate pollution down to PM0.3

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

What does the mask filter?

The mask has three filters – the outer layer filters course pollution like dust. The middle filter is a three-ply non woven microfiber filter which can absorb particulate pollution down to 0.3 microns. This HEPA technology was developed by NASA for the Space Programme. The final inner layer is a 100% activated carbon cloth developed by the British military for use in chemical, nuclear and biological warfare protection. It is treated with silver which helps to absorb and kill viruses and bacteria and also absorbs gas based pollution such as benzene or petrol exhaust.

A basic list of things we filter: pet allergens, spores and pollen, PM2.5 and general particulate based air pollution down to PM0.3, gas based pollution, second hand cigarette smoke, viruses, bacteria, wood dust.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

Does the mask come with the Smart Valve included?

We sell the mask and the SmartValve separately. There is a pledge level that includes both a mask and a SmartValve. All the masks we produce from October onwards will be compatible, so you can always buy the smart upgrade later on.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

When can I get my mask and or SmartValve?

We aim to ship by October 2017.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

Does the Bluetooth give off radiation?

We use Bluetooth Low Energy for our microchip. Normal Bluetooth transmits at a maximum of 100mW (far less than a mobile phone) and the Low Energy versions operate at one tenth of Bluetooth, or a maximum of 10mW. This means our masks will be a small fraction of the level you would find in mobile phone, wireless headphones or smart watches.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

Are the masks for industrial use?

Our masks are not intended as workplace personal protective equipment (PPE). They should not be used in an industrial environment.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

Which mobile phones work with the Smart Cambridge Mask app?

Any iOS or Android device.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

Is this suitable for people with multiple chemical sensitivity?

We work with Dr Harriet Leyland, a medical consultant and former General Practitioner. She also advises everyone to seek specific recommendations relating to their individual needs from their own doctor.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

Are the mask certified to international standards?

Our mask filters are tested to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health standards for N99 under part CFR part 48. Nelson labs in USA tested mask samples and showed an average filtration of 99.6% of viruses and 99.7% of bacteria. We also meet Korean Food and Drug Administration, Chinese KN-95 and Indian national standards.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

What do you do with my data?

We take privacy and your data very seriously. We use encryption for communications between the mask and your phone as well as phone and our server. We use data to improve our service and help customers have the best chance of respiratory health. This may include checking user breathing patterns (e.g. See the difference between someone walking, cycling or running), location (e.g. What areas are you going regularly which have pollution) or levels of interaction with our app. Once practicable we intend to give every account access to a downloadable csv file with all the data we have collected to be as open and transparent as possible and allow you to use the data for your own purposes.

Last updated: May 30, 2017 05:56

What is the filter’s lifespan?

For an average use in Beijing the masks last around 200 hours of use, around 3-6 months. The SmartValve tracks filter life carefully, so you won’t need to worry about monitoring filter level yourself. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

Where do I get a new filter?

The whole mask is made of filters, so once they are saturated you will need to purchase a new ordinary mask. The SmartValve easily clips on and off so you can swap over to your new mask in a few seconds. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

How does shipping work?

The SmartValve and Cambridge Mask are in separate packaging, but will be sent together. All pledge levels will be shipped at the same time. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

How well should the mask fit?

It is important to ensure you mask has a goof fit. We have added adjustable ear loops to newer model masks to help users ensure the best possible fit. The mask filters are tested to meet NIOSH N99 standards, meaning filtration of 99+% of particulate pollution down to PM0.3 Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

What does the mask filter?

The mask has three filters – the outer layer filters course pollution like dust. The middle filter is a three-ply non woven microfiber filter which can absorb particulate pollution down to 0.3 microns. This HEPA technology was developed by NASA for the Space Programme. The final inner layer is a 100% activated carbon cloth developed by the British military for use in chemical, nuclear and biological warfare protection. It is treated with silver which helps to absorb and kill viruses and bacteria and also absorbs gas based pollution such as benzene or petrol exhaust. A basic list of things we filter: pet allergens, spores and pollen, PM2.5 and general particulate based air pollution down to PM0.3, gas based pollution, second hand cigarette smoke, viruses, bacteria, wood dust. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

Does the mask come with the Smart Valve included?

We sell the mask and the SmartValve separately. There is a pledge level that includes both a mask and a SmartValve. All the masks we produce from October onwards will be compatible, so you can always buy the smart upgrade later on. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

When can I get my mask and or SmartValve?

We aim to ship by October 2017. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

Does the Bluetooth give off radiation?

We use Bluetooth Low Energy for our microchip. Normal Bluetooth transmits at a maximum of 100mW (far less than a mobile phone) and the Low Energy versions operate at one tenth of Bluetooth, or a maximum of 10mW. This means our masks will be a small fraction of the level you would find in mobile phone, wireless headphones or smart watches. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

Are the masks for industrial use?

Our masks are not intended as workplace personal protective equipment (PPE). They should not be used in an industrial environment. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

Which mobile phones work with the Smart Cambridge Mask app?

Any iOS or Android device. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

Is this suitable for people with multiple chemical sensitivity?

We work with Dr Harriet Leyland, a medical consultant and former General Practitioner. She also advises everyone to seek specific recommendations relating to their individual needs from their own doctor. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

Are the mask certified to international standards?

Our mask filters are tested to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health standards for N99 under part CFR part 48. Nelson labs in USA tested mask samples and showed an average filtration of 99.6% of viruses and 99.7% of bacteria. We also meet Korean Food and Drug Administration, Chinese KN-95 and Indian national standards. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

What do you do with my data?

We take privacy and your data very seriously. We use encryption for communications between the mask and your phone as well as phone and our server. We use data to improve our service and help customers have the best chance of respiratory health. This may include checking user breathing patterns (e.g. See the difference between someone walking, cycling or running), location (e.g. What areas are you going regularly which have pollution) or levels of interaction with our app. Once practicable we intend to give every account access to a downloadable csv file with all the data we have collected to be as open and transparent as possible and allow you to use the data for your own purposes. Last updated: Tue, May 30 2017 8:56 am EDT

Shipping Updates
For the most up-to-date information about the status of our project, check our project updates on Kickstarter!

Current Estimated Shipping Date: October 2017

Last Updated At: 07/03/17
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