Low-leak noninvasive breathing mask for contagious lung infections
Refinement of Very Low Leakage Non-Invasive Ventilation Mask for Infectious Patients
A new noninvasive breathing mask is designed to trap and filter infectious aerosols for people who need CPAP/BiPAP support during illnesses like COVID-19 or the flu.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Creare, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hanover, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11382584 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project is developing a replacement mask for CPAP/BiPAP machines that uses a double seal plus a built-in vacuum ejector to capture air leaking from the mask before it reaches the room. The captured flow is routed through a viral filter so contaminated aerosols are removed prior to exhaust. The device is intended as a low-cost, drop-in replacement that integrates with existing hospital NPPV equipment. Earlier prototypes showed much better sealing than standard masks and this phase focuses on refining performance and manufacturability for clinical use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with contagious respiratory infections who require noninvasive positive pressure support (CPAP/BiPAP) and are not intubated would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients who need invasive mechanical ventilation (intubation), do not require respiratory support, or cannot be fitted with a mask due to facial anatomy likely would not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the mask could reduce spread of airborne infections in hospitals and let more patients receive noninvasive breathing support safely without intubation.
How similar studies have performed: Prior Phase I prototypes demonstrated substantially better sealing than standard masks, but broader clinical use of this specific dual-seal and vacuum-ejector approach is still new.
Where this research is happening
Hanover, United States
- Creare, LLC — Hanover, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Micka, Daniel — Creare, LLC
- Study coordinator: Micka, Daniel
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.