[BigLew]

I am NOT an expert, or even reasonably knowledgable \enough on the subject, but my understanding is that vapors emminating from compounds of an ORGANIC Chemical compound (Methane, tolulene? etc.)are what are referred to as VOC's or Volatile Organic Compounds. All such materials are to be lableled as such on their label.

With regard to the service life of a cartridge, I understand it is very short-hours. I have heard that one way to extend the life is to store them in a ziploc type bag between use. the total service life is maintained to the total exposed to VOC time or open air.

The other thing you mentioned is sanding and grinding or particulate hazard. In this case you would need to know the minimum possible size of the particles likely to be exposed to and be sure you have a filtering mask capable of RELIABLY trapping that size particle. The 3M dust masks never fair well in the few tests I have seen. The full face respirators do the best job and most of the good ones use a battery powered fan with filter to force filtered air into and through a gas mask type mask.

I am particularly bothered by sawdust and am considering getting one of these units. The non-powered ones go for between $40 and $100 while some of the battery ones will go to $300-$400 for the best. From there you go up to units that are the facemask with attached hose connected to an electric blower/pump and they can approach a grand or more.

Good luck.