This mask was of fragile construction, required excess training to use effectively and largely immobilized men during a gas attack as they were concerned about their mask coming loose. As it evolved, this mask used several filter types including filtering cartridges filled with agglomerated coal and glycerin water. The ARS well covered the face thanks to adjustable elastic straps and offers a good protection to eyes and breathing system. Breathing is made safe through air purifying cartridges for an efficient protection. This new mask called ARS mask (special respiratory device) or MCG (chemical warfare mask) was at that time the best protective unit against gases the Allied soldiers had to face. Though, its usage only started in January 1918. In August 1916, a new gas mask version inspired by the German WW1 gas mask units was engineered, and produced in January 1917. Later, polycarbonate started being used for its strength. Panoramic lenses were not popular until the 1930s, but there are some examples of those being used even during the war (Austro-Hungarian 15M). Later on, the Triplex lens style (two layers of glass and one layer of cellulose acetate in between) became more popular, and alongside the simpler cellulose acetate they became the standard into the 1930s. With the exception of the latter, these materials were quite brittle and needed frequent replacement. The first gas masks mostly used circular lenses made either of glass, mica or cellulose acetate.
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