Tear gas, a chemical weapon prohibited by the Geneva Protocol of 1925 after its use in World War I, is now the most commonly used riot-control device throughout the world. In the last two decades, tear gas use has grown at an alarming rate and has been grossly misused in countries such as Israel, Venezuela, Brazil, China, and, most recently, Hong Kong. The T.E.A.R. Mask protects civilians’ right to protest by giving them easy, quick access to protective gear. This pocket-sized anti-tear gas respirator protects the eyes, nose, and mouth—as well as human rights. It is compact enough fit in a pocket or purse. 

Designed by: Ian Annis, Claudia Hasenfang, Alexander Munro and Cole Powell of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University’s College of Architecture and Urban Studies

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