DuPont has launched the Tyvek^®APX™ 400 protective coverall, the first in a new generation of highly breathable single-use chemical protection garments. Made from DuPont™ Tyvek^®APX™ material, the new garment is suitable for any application requiring Category III, Type 5-B and Type 6-B chemical protection.

‘The improved performance of the Tyvek^® material – states a company statement – has been validated through collaboration with experts who have applied scientific methods to assess breathability and worker well-being. ’ Empa, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, carried out modelling of human thermoregulation and biometric monitoring under controlled conditions. The research assessed thermal stress, sweating frequency, skin temperature and overall perceived comfort. Human trials with biometric monitoring then confirmed the data from the simulations.” “The research – the statement continues – assessed the breathability of Tyvek® APX™ protective garments under real-world working conditions. These factors included high ambient temperatures, controlled humidity and moderate to high levels of activity. Empa’s thermoregulation model demonstrated that Tyvek® APX™ material allows for a slower rise in core body and skin temperature compared to traditional clothing options, including standard garments. This helps to reduce heat fatigue, perceived thermal stress and recovery times in the event of high temperatures and strenuous activity. Further endurance tests conducted on nearly 300 users worldwide confirmed a clear preference for garments made from the new material. Some users have compared the feeling of wearing the personal protective equipment to that of casual clothing”.

The Tyvek® APX™ 400 coverall combines exceptional breathability with tried-and-tested design features, including a three-piece hood for visibility and excellent freedom of movement, an integrated Tyvek® elasticated cuff to keep the sleeves in place during overhead movements, and a Tyvek® zip-up front for easy donning and doffing. These features are complemented by an elasticated waistband for flexibility of movement, as well as elasticated cuffs, ankles and face seal to minimise the ingress of chemicals.

As the Tyvek® APX™ 400 disposable coverall is made from a single material (HDPE), it is easily recyclable, provided there has been no contamination.