NPAC refers to the inner chamber, which measures 10 x 10 x 8 feet.  The inner chamber may be entered and exited by staff before aerosolization or after decontamination.  It utilizes a proprietary exhaust mechanism to maintain negative pressure when studies are underway.  Surrounding NPAC is a larger enclosure refered to as “The Shield.”  The shield is 20 x 16 x 13 foot, HEPA-filtered negative pressure containment shell.  This is the area where staff conduct and oversee testing.

Aerosols are generated by twin 6-jet nebulizers, powered by compressed air supplied externally.  Air samples are collected by SKC Biosamplers via impingement.  After testing, air and surfaces within the chamber are disinfected by four high-intensity UV lights, one of which is movable.  In the event of a power failure an external generator takes over.