I was recently issued a Avon FM12 respirator with a DPF12 canister.  I had a medical screening and was fit tested before being issued the mask.  My question is this.  How long are the filters good for if unopened, and after they are opened.  What will this filter?  What do I need to know about these  

I'm looking into this further, but I thought someone here may know something about this topic.  Mostly I was looking for info at www.ileas.org, but any other help would be great.

Bucky145    

If Avon follows the "standard .mil practice" your new, sealed in wrap filters hould be good "on paper" for 5 years (look for an expiration date - no kidding), but, just like MRE's, 5 years to .mil is about 8 in our time.

FM 3-4 states 1 year if open and unused, and no more than 30 days if you're operating in an agent area.

www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/library/policy/army/fm/3-4/CH22.htm