IIT Delhi develops Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) coverall to avoid COVID-19 infection
IIT Delhi’s Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering has the developed the technology for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Coverall (Integrated Body Suit and Shoe Cover) for the protection of doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, and others from COVID-19. Researchers at IIT Delhi has been actively involved in the development of highly-functional and innovative textile materials which has gained the market prominence due to the texture and quality.
Dr. S.M. Ishtiaque, Professor Emeritus, Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, IIT Delhi, and his student, Dr. Biswa Ranjan Das, Scientist ‘D’ and Assistant Director, Defence Material and Stores Research and Development Establishment (DMSRDE), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Kanpur, has developed an advanced version of PPE coverall, which meets the criteria specified by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. An innovative coating was applied over the compact polyester woven fabric to maintain the lightweight of PPE.
“The advanced version of PPE coverall that we have developed is set to emerge as an improvised product in the national and international markets, bestowing several special functional features along with meeting the requirements for added comfort.” – Dr. S. M. Ishtiaque, Professor Emeritus, Department of Textile and FibreEngineering, IIT Delhi.
The presence of anti-bacterial properties gives an extra edge to the coverall as it safeguards against the penetration of coronavirus which is the need of the hour due to unprecedented situation apart from the lightweight material that escalates the chances from the other available PPE in the market.
The use of special-grade polyurethane coating of the coverall augments a smooth texture and the breathable fabric provides comfort to the user. The impermeable membrane on the outer portion of the coveralls acts as a barrier for both oil and water. The PPE suit will be available in four varieties of size ranging from both Body Suit – S, M, L and XL alongwith shoe cover in various sizes from 1-4. The PPE suit can be reused for three consecutive times therefore it reduces the cost aspect also compared to other available PPE suits in market. For manufacture of the coverall the researchers have collaborated with G. D International company to produce 1,20,000 coveralls per month.
“The advanced version of PPE coverall that we have developed is set to emerge as an improvised product in the national and international markets, bestowing several special functional features along with meeting the requirements for added comfort. Breathability and the comfort of the coverall has been a major challenge and we have ensured that to reach an adequate levels of breathability and a softer feel, to support extended wearability,” said Dr. S. M. Ishtiaque, Professor Emeritus, Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, IIT Delhi.
In this unprecedented scenario, where COVID-19 the ongoing pandemic, is spreading across the globe and has resulted in the death of over three lakh people, so far, while many infected with the virus are undergoing treatment. This PPE coverall is like a boon that will safeguard the mankind from the indiscernible threat.
Credit: India Science Wire
