The 3M™ VFlex™ Particulate Respirator 9105 is a NIOSH-approved N95 disposable respirator with a unique vertical-fold flat-fold design that allows it to be stored flat and then expand into a full breathing chamber when worn. It provides at least 95% filtration efficiency against certain non-oil-based airborne particles using 3M Advanced Electrostatic Media. An adjustable noseclip provides a customizable fit across the nose bridge. The flexible folded construction conforms closely to a range of face shapes. Available in Standard (9105) and Small (9105S) sizes. No exhalation valve. Shelf life is 5 years.
What does VFlex mean and how does the design work?
VFlex refers to 3M's vertical-fold flat design. The respirator is stored flat and folds along a central vertical crease, then unfolds when worn to form a full three-dimensional breathing chamber over the nose and mouth. This design stores efficiently in bulk packaging, making it practical for high-volume applications. The flexible material also conforms more naturally to a range of face shapes compared to rigid cup-style respirators.
What is the difference between the 9105 Standard and 9105S Small?
The 9105 Standard is sized for most adult faces. The 9105S is a smaller version designed for users with smaller facial dimensions who find the standard size creates gaps or excess material around the chin or cheeks. Both models provide equivalent NIOSH N95 filtration. If you have difficulty achieving a proper seal with the standard size, the 9105S is worth trying.
Is the 9105 suitable for healthcare and source control?
The 9105 has no exhalation valve, so exhaled breath passes through the filter material before exiting. This provides source control in addition to inhalation filtration, making it compatible with healthcare environments where non-valved N95s are required. Verify compliance with your specific institutional PPE policy.
Can the 9105 be used for construction dust and sanding?
Yes. The 9105 is NIOSH-approved N95 and filters at least 95% of non-oil-based particles, including construction dust, drywall particles, and wood sanding dust. It is appropriate for dusty job site use. For extended multi-hour work in hot or humid conditions, a valved N95 such as the 8511 may be more comfortable, as the VFlex design without a valve can retain more heat.
How does the 9105 compare to the 9205+ Aura?
Both use folded designs rather than rigid cups, and both are NIOSH N95 without exhalation valves. The 9205+ Aura uses a three-panel design with individual packaging and a larger breathing chamber profile, while the 9105 VFlex folds vertically and is sold in bulk packs of 50, making it more suited for high-volume workplace procurement. The Aura's individual packaging and Made in USA designation make it a common choice for consumer and emergency preparedness use.
Does the 9105 fog up glasses?
The adjustable noseclip helps reduce the upward air leakage that causes fogging, but the 9105 does not include the cushioning nose foam found on some other 3M models such as the 8210 or 9205+. Users with flat or narrow nose bridges may experience more fogging. Pressing the noseclip firmly against the nose bridge is the most effective adjustment to minimize fogging.
# 3M™ VFlex™ Particulate Respirator 9105, N95 **Model:** `9105` **Brand:** 3M **Category:** Respirator > The 3M™ VFlex™ Particulate Respirator 9105 is a NIOSH-approved N95 disposable respirator with a unique vertical-fold flat-fold design that allows it to be stored flat and then expand into a full breathing chamber when worn. It provides at least 95% filtration efficiency against certain non-oil-based airborne particles using 3M Advanced Electrostatic Media. An adjustable noseclip provides a customizable fit across the nose bridge. The flexible folded construction conforms closely to a range of face shapes. Available in Standard (9105) and Small (9105S) sizes. No exhalation valve. Shelf life is 5 years. ## Specifications | Attribute | Value | |---|---| | Product Type | Disposable Particulate Respirator | | Respirator Type | Disposable | | Niosh Approval | Yes | | Protection Class | N95 | | Size | Standard | | Pack Sizes | 50 | | Barcode (UPC) | | ## What's Included - Disposable N95 respirator (sold in packs of 50) Source: https://www.jaspecs.com/3m/respirator/9105-3m-vflex-particulate-respirator-n95/