HEAT AND MOISTURE EXCHANGER

摘要

This heat and moisture exchanger (HME) is characterized by comprising: a heat and moisture exchanger material that is formed by coiling a strip-shaped porous body, said porous body having a plurality of slits formed therein that are arranged along the lengthwise direction, into a spirally-wound shape with the slits facing radially outward; and a housing that accommodates the heat and moisture exchanger material. The use of such a structure for an HME makes it possible to reduce pressure loss and improve moisture retention capabilities by means of a relatively simple structure, thereby allowing the inexpensive provision of an HME that lowers the burden on a patient. More specifically, little pressure loss occurs because the slits that are formed in the porous body work as flow paths for exhalation and inhalation, said porous body makes it possible to exhibit superior moisture retention capabilities and moisturizing capabilities, and it is thus possible to provide an HME exhibiting superior production characteristics.