: Does anyone know exactly what ingredient(s)in a respirator filter cartridge
: blocks epoxy fumes? Is it activated charcoal? Furthermore, with the
: potential for life threatening toxins entering the body via epoxy vapours,
: how do we know for certain that simply donning a little mask will protect
: you from contamination!!

Hi Greg: From my limited knowledge, the cartridges contain carbon plus other ingredients. We also know that different cartridges are required for different organics. For instance we need to use a different cartridge for the organics (ammonia and formaldehyde) found in supposedly safe artists acrylic paints. I was also advised by a safety supply tech. that the half-mask and cartridge only removes UP TO 90% leaving 10% for you. So, it is imperitive to me that the first line of defence is lots of ventilation, with the mask as supplementary precaution, and a healthy amount of faith that you are healthy enough in the right way to handle whatever you get.

If you are a one-time or occasional builder, and you take reasonable precautions (what is "reasonable"?) you most likely will not ingest enough to cause yourself problems, although there are no guarantees. Professionals working continuously with epoxy have a different problem. From what we see and hear in this discussion, there do not appear to be too many with serious problems. I have to counter that with my experience on Friday at the Ottawa paddle sport show where I spoke with one kit supplier/builder who has developed allergies to working with the epoxies to the extent that even with the respirator, he develops lung problems and almost immediate skin rashes, even without direct physical contact.

However, we can all become paranoid if we choose. To me, there is a calculated risk involved. One can mitigate to the extent reasonably possible, and go from there. To me, this involves working in the garage with the door open, large fans on, wearing the mask when working, and getting one's tukus out of the area during the cure period. This eliminates epoxying in your house, and in the winterif you can't heat the garage or other workspace enough for the epoxy cure.