ABSTRACT
Safety and protective materials must withstand the effects of multiple harsh environments. Industrial textiles are used to protect from one or more of the following: extreme heat and fire, extreme cold, harmful chemicals and gases, bacterial/viral environment, contamination, mechanical hazards, electrical hazards, radiation, vacuum and pressure fluctuations. The effect of increased temperature on fabric strength and other properties is important for performance reasons. The most commonly used synthetic flame resistant fibers include aramids, Polybenzimidazole and PFR rayon. SEF acrylic is used in some chemical resistance requirements and in children's sleepwear. Various flame resistant treatments have been applied to cotton goods over the years. Important parameters when selecting flame-resistant protective apparel are flame resistance, ergonomical design for wearer comfort, durability, easy maintenance, and aesthetics. Fabrics which are coated or laminated with special films are suitable for chemical protection involving liquids and gases. Contaminant resistant garments such as Ty vek and Kleenguard are used during asbestos removal to protect the worker.
