# ClearWorks Particulate Respirator

> **NIH ALLCDC R43** · APPLIED DESIGN TECHNOLOGIES · 2024 · $295,924

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
The ClearWorks respirator, developed by Applied Design Technologies, addresses the critical need for
comfortable and effective respiratory protection for healthcare workers (HCWs) in the face of infectious
diseases, like COVID-19. Current respirators often lack both optimal breathability and a secure seal, causing
discomfort and increased exposure risk. ClearWorks aims to revolutionize this field with its foam half mask
respirator design. The significance of this project lies in protecting HCWs' health and well-being, especially
considering the high mortality rates reported among healthcare workers due to COVID-19. ClearWorks
respirators offer a range of advantages, including exceptional breathability, a universal fit across different head
sizes, transparency for social acceptance and visual speech recognition, lightweight design, reduced CO2
levels, and minimal facial contact pressure. These features are expected to enhance overall comfort and
usability, thereby increasing the likelihood of consistent respirator usage during prolonged shifts, a challenge
reported by many HCWs. With its unique modular component architecture, ClearWorks provides opportunities
for cost-effective upgrades and customization, while its innovative foam seal design and pleated filters
contribute to comfort and breathability. To validate ClearWorks' effectiveness, the prototype will undergo
rigorous testing in this Phase I SBIR, including Fit Factor assessments and resistance testing, adhering to
NIOSH standards. These tests will demonstrate the product's superior performance in ensuring a secure seal
and minimizing breathing resistance. Additionally, third-party validation by a highly regarded testing provider
will provide independent confirmation of the research findings. The ClearWorks respirator project aims to
address a significant gap in respiratory protection for healthcare workers and essential personnel. By
combining innovation in design, materials, and fit, ClearWorks seeks to reshape the landscape of respiratory
protection, ultimately improving the safety and well-being of those on the front lines of infectious disease
control. The product's commercial potential is substantial, targeting the healthcare sector, home health nurses,
and broader essential worker categories.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11008868
- **Project number:** 1R43OH012720-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** APPLIED DESIGN TECHNOLOGIES
- **Principal Investigator:** Christopher Estkowski
- **Activity code:** R43 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** ALLCDC
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $295,924
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-09-01 → 2025-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11008868

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11008868, ClearWorks Particulate Respirator (1R43OH012720-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-27 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11008868. Licensed CC0.

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