Watch CBS News

Coronavirus In Colorado: CSU Engineering Lab Testing Medical PPE

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (CBS4) - Colorado State University transformed its engineering lab into a testing site for innovated medical protective gear. Surgical masks made by different vendors are being tested for efficacy.

Masks Tested Colorado State University
Colorado State University Mechanical Engineering assistant professor Christian L'Orange prepares an N95 mask for testing by sealing it to a frame with bee's wax, March 3, 2020, in the Volckens Group lab on the CSU campus. (credit: Colorado State University)

The university can then recommend which vendor's mask will keep health care professionals safe.

It's also testing N95 respirator masks for filtration and pressure to ensure people are still able to breathe properly through them.

Masks Tested Colorado State University
Colorado State University Mechanical Engineering assistant professor Christian L'Orange prepares an N95 mask for testing by sealing it to a frame with bee's wax, March 3, 2020, in the Volckens Group lab on the CSU campus. (credit: Colorado State University)

In early March, CBS4 toured a CSU lab which successfully duplicated the virus in order for researchers to create a vaccine.

coronavirus vaccine (4)
(credit: CBS)

"These are new ideas (and) new concepts that are developed in the minds of students, faculty and staff here that are developed into practical solutions, that can ultimately reach the public in forms that help control the spread of diseases like this," said Raymond Goodrich, Executive Director of CSU's Infectious Disease Research Center.

RELATED: Latest Updates On The Coronavirus Outbreak In Colorado

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.