Protective garment having enhanced liquid penetration resistance

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a protective garment (20). The protective garment may comprise a first fabric material layer (46), a second fabric material layer (42), and an interstitial cavity (44). The protective garment furthers comprise one or more seams (30, 32) covered with seam tape (10).

Description

Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTPROTECTIVE GARMENT HAVING ENHANCED LIQUID PENETRATION RESISTANCEBACKGROUND

[0001] Medical protective apparel, such as drapes and gowns, are designed to protect medical workers during the performance of their occupations. Most protective apparel are designed to cover at least the front torso and the arms of the wearer. Many of these protective garments also cover the back torso area. The protective apparel is designed to protect the wearer from coming into contact with all different types of fluids, such as blood, saliva, plasma, serums, other bodily fluids, and other liquids. Such protective apparel, for instance, should be designed to prevent fluids from penetrating or striking through the fabric used to make the apparel.

[0002] In the past, most protective apparel worn by healthcare workers was made to be disposable after a single use. Such gowns and drapes, for instance, were made from nonwoven materials that contained fibers made from petroleumbased polymers. The use of disposable products, however, especially those made from petroleum-based polymers are contrary to many sustainability efforts.Consequently, recent attention has been directed towards reusable protective garments and apparel made from woven or knitted fabrics. Reusable garments are more environmentally friendly by reducing the amount of waste plastic that enters the solid waste stream.

[0003] In view of the above, a need exists for protective apparel and garments that are reusable and have seams that not only provide barrier protection but also can remain effective after multiple laundry cycles. Further, a need exists for protective apparel and garments having enhanced liquid penetration resistance.SUMMARY

[0004] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0005] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a protective garment is disclosed. The protective garment may comprise: a body portionAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCThaving at least a front section, the body portion being connected to a first sleeve and to a second sleeve, each sleeve defining a hollow tubular portion, the first sleeve defining a first seam that extends along a length of the hollow tubular portion of the first sleeve and the second sleeve defining a second seam that extends along a length of the hollow tubular portion of the second sleeve; and a first seam tape covering the first seam and a second seam tape covering the second seam; wherein the protective garment comprises a first fabric material layer, a second fabric material layer, and an interstitial cavity, the interstitial cavity at least partially separating the first fabric material layer and the second fabric material layer.

[0006] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a protective garment is disclosed. The protective garment may comprise: a body portion having at least a front section, the body portion being connected to a first sleeve and to a second sleeve, each sleeve defining a hollow tubular portion, the first sleeve defining a first seam that extends along a length of the hollow tubular portion of the first sleeve and the second sleeve defining a second seam that extends along a length of the hollow tubular portion of the second sleeve; and a first seam tape covering the first seam and a second seam tape covering the second seam, each seam tape comprising a fabric layer, an adhesive layer, and optionally a film layer positioned between the fabric layer and the adhesive layer, the adhesive layer being bonded to the woven fabric along the respective seam; wherein the protective garment comprises a first fabric material layer, a second fabric material layer, and an interstitial cavity, the interstitial cavity at least partially separating the first fabric material layer and the second fabric material layer.

[0007] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure are discussed in greater detail below.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] A full and enabling disclosure of the present disclosure is set forth more particularly in the remainder of the specification, including reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0009] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of one aspect of a front of a protective garment in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT

[0010] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of one aspect of a back of a protective garment in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0011] Figure 3 illustrates a plan view of one aspect of a seam tape applied to the protective garment illustrated in FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0012] Figure 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one aspect of a seam tape in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0013] Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a protective garment in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0014] Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a protective garment in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0015] Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a protective garment in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter; and

[0016] Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a protective garment in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter.

[0017] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference now will be made in detail to various embodiments. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the embodiments, not as a limitation of the present disclosure. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that aspects of the present disclosure cover such modifications and variations.

[0019] In general, the present disclosure is directed to a protective garment having enhanced liquid penetration resistance. Notably, the protective garment may include two or more layers of fabric material. In this respect, the protective garment of the present disclosure may be a multi-layer garment. In some aspects, one or more of the fabric material layers may be treated with a durable water-Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTresistant treatment. The protective garment is particularly well suited to protecting the user from fluids and providing an impenetrable barrier to many liquids. For instance, when used in the medical industry, the protective garment may protect a user from blood, other body fluids, saline solutions, and other fluids from penetrating or striking through the fabric. In this respect, the protective garment may also provide protection against many microorganisms including pathogens, bacteria, or viruses. The protective garment may be reusable and can undergo multiple laundry cycles and still retain its protective barrier properties.

[0020] In accordance with the present disclosure, the protective garment may include a seam tape that protects the seams of the garment and prevents the seams from permitting the flow of fluids. The seam tape of the present disclosure may be designed to withstand multiple laundry cycles. Notably, multi-layer garments traditionally use transverse seams to protect the user from fluids.However, the seam tape of the present disclosure may replace the traditional need for transverse seams in multi-layer garments.

[0021] It should be understood that throughout the entirety of this specification, each numerical value (e g., weight percentage, concentration) disclosed should be read as modified by the term “about”, unless already expressly so modified, and then read again as not to be so modified. For instance, a value of “100” is to be understood as disclosing “100” and “about 100”. Further, it should be understood that throughout the entirety of this specification, when a numerical range (e g., weight percentage, concentration) is described, any and every amount of the range, including the end points and all amounts therebetween, is disclosed. For instance, a range of “1 to 100”, is to be understood as disclosing both a range of “1 to 100 including all amounts therebetween” and a range of “about 1 to about 100 including all amounts therebetween”. The amounts therebetween may be separated by any incremental value. It should be understood that any concentration values disclosed herein may refer to mass concentration, molar concentration, number concentration, and / or volume concentration. It should be understood that, unless stated otherwise, any standard listed herein (e.g., ASTM) is the most recent version available as of the latest revision year. Notably, some aspects of the present disclosure may omit one or more of the features disclosed herein.Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT

[0022] Generally, the protective garment of the present disclosure may be used in all different types of fields and applications. For instance, the protective garment may be used in industrial settings, school settings, nursing homes, and the like. When used in the healthcare industry, the protective garment may be made into a drape or gown worn by a patient or a healthcare provider.

[0023] Notably, when used in the healthcare industry, a protective garment and / or a fabric material layer thereof may be rated according to the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI). The current AAMI standard is described in "Liquid Barrier Performance and Classification of Protective Apparel and Drapes Intended for Use in Health Care Facilities," ANSI / AAMI PB70:2022. This AAMI standard helps to preserve the sterile field and protect health care workers during surgery and other health care procedures during which exposure to blood, body fluids and other potential infectious material might occur. This AAMI standard establishes a system of classification and associated minimum requirements for protective apparel such as gowns and drapes used in health care facilities based on their liquid barrier performance.

[0024] The present AAMI standard for liquid barrier performance is provided in the following table:Table 1<<><>

[0025] As shown in the table above, the AAMI uses two tests developed by the American Association of Textile Colorists and Chemists ("AATCC"). AATCC 42 measures a material's water resistance by impact penetration. The material to be tested is held at a 45-degree angle while a fixed amount of water is sprayed on it. A blotter affixed under the material is weighed before and after the water isAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTsprayed to determine how much water penetrated the fabric. According to the present AAMI standard, the material is classified as Level 1 if the weight gain of the blotter is no more than 4.5 grams.

[0026] For present AAMI Level 2, the material to be tested must satisfy two AATCC tests - AATCC 42 and AATCC 127. The first test, AATCC 42, is the same as that used for Level 1 except that the increase in the blotter's weight must be no more than 1 gram. The additional test is AATCC 127 which measures a material's resistance to water penetration under hydrostatic pressure. Under this test, a sample of the material to be tested is clamped in place horizontally on the bottom of a glass, metered cylinder. Hydrostatic pressure is increased steadily by increasing the amount of water in the cylinder. To be acceptable for use as a present AAMI Level 2 barrier, the material must be able to resist the penetration of water when it reaches a level of 20 cm.

[0027] For present AAMI Level 3, both of the AATCC test methods described above must be satisfied, similar to the requirements to meet the present AAMI Level 2. For AATCC 42, the maximum blotter weight gain is the same as that for Level 2 (i.e., 1 gram). For AATCC 127 to be acceptable for use as a present AAMI Level 3 barrier, the level of water in the cylinder used in AATCC 127 must be at least 50 cm. Notably, protective garments made according to the present disclosure can maintain an AAMI Level 3 rating even after 60 laundry cycles, such as 75 laundry cycles or more, such as 85 laundry cycles or more, such as 100 laundry cycles or more, such as 105 laundry cycles or more.

[0028] Generally, a laundry cycle is according to “Care Code ST.” A laundry cycle not only includes laundering of the protective garment but also a sterilization protocol. One laundry cycle in conjunction with a sterilization protocol is as follows:Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTVacuum steam sterilization protocol:Temperature: 134°C / 274°FExposure Time: 4 minutesExhaust Time: 20 minutes

[0029] For present AAMI Level 4, the AAMI uses two tests developed by the American Society for Testing Materials ("ASTM")-F1670 / F1670M-24a for liquid penetration (i.e., surrogate blood) and F1671 / F1671 -22 for viral penetration (i.e., bacteriophage Phi-X174). For surgical gowns and other protective apparel, the material must meet the viral challenge of F1671 / F1671 M-22 which measures the resistance of materials to bloodborne pathogens using viral penetration at 2 psi and ambient pressure. For surgical drapes and accessories, the material must meet the liquid challenge of F1670 / F1670M-24a which measures the resistance of drape materials to penetration by synthetic blood at 2 psi and ambient pressure. For both tests, the results are expressed as pass or fail rather than in terms of a material's resistance.

[0030] ForASTM F1671 / F1671M-22, the material must pass the test for resistance to penetration by bacteriophage Phi-X174. A sample of the material to be tested is placed vertically in a test cell as a membrane between the media challenge (i.e., liquid) and a viewing chamber. Materials that permit penetration during an hour of a prescribed series of changes in air pressure are not considered suitable for use. ForASTM F1670 / F1670M-24a, the material must pass the test for resistance to penetration by synthetic blood. As in the test for viral penetration, the material to be tested is mounted in a vertical position on a cell that separates the surrogate blood liquid challenge and the viewing chamber. The test is terminated if visible liquid penetration occurs at any time before or during 60 minutes of changes in pressure and atmospheric protocols.

[0031] Notably, protective garments and / or fabric material layers thereof made in accordance with the present disclosure can pass the AAMI Level 1 , the AAMIAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTLevel 2, and / or the AAMI Level 3 requirements as described above. In particular, the protective garment (including all seams) can display an impact penetration according to Test AATCC 42 of one gram or less and can display a hydrostatic pressure according to Test AATCC 127 of 50 cm or greater.

[0032] Generally, a protective garment and / or a fabric material layer thereof may pass European standards, such as EN13795 and EN14126. For example, the garment and / or a fabric material layer thereof may pass one or more of the standards or requirements of EN 13795-1:2019, which are stated below in Table 2.Table 2< <>< < < << < < <> > > >> > > >> >> > > >> >Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT

[0033] Notably, a protective garment and / or a fabric material layer thereof in accordance with the present disclosure may pass or be in accordance with EN ISO 22612, EN ISO 22610, EN ISO 11737-1, EN ISO 9073-10, EN ISO 811, EN ISO 13938-1 , EN 29073-3, or a combination thereof. A protective garment and / or a fabric material layer thereof may pass or be in accordance with the standard performance or high performance of a critical product area and / or less critical product area. In general, critical product areas include those areas most likely to be exposed to blood and other body liquids (e.g., the front and sleeves of surgical gowns or the parts of surgical drapes adjacent to the surgical wound). The back of a surgical gown and the portion(s) of surgical drapes being far from the wound are usually considered as less critical product areas.

[0034] Protective Garment and Fabric Material Layer(s)

[0035] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 illustrate one aspect of a protective garment 20. Protective garment 20 can include a body portion 22 that can include a front 24 and a back 25. The body portion 22 can be connected to a first sleeve 26 and a second sleeve 28. In order to form the first sleeve 26 or the second sleeve 28, the fabric may be connected together along a first seam 30 and a second seam 32. Each seam can be formed by stitching the opposing material together. In one embodiment, the seam can be formed by two parallel rows of stitching. The seam can be made according to US Patent No. 6,680,100, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0036] As previously disclosed herein, the protective garment of the present disclosure may include one or more layers of fabric material. Notably, the body portion, the first sleeve, the second sleeve, or a combination thereof may be formed from one or more layers of fabric material. For instance, the body portion, the first sleeve, the second sleeve, or a combination thereof may include a plurality of fabric material layers. When formed from a plurality of layers, the protective garment may be referred to as a multi-layer garment. Similarly, when the body portion, the first sleeve, the second sleeve, or a combination thereof are formed from a plurality of layers, the component may be referred to as a multi-layer body portion, a multi-layer first sleeve, ora multi-layer second sleeve respectively.Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT

[0037] In some aspects, the fabric material layers (e.g., first fabric material layer, second fabric material layer) of a protective garment and / or any component thereof (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve) may be configured such that an interstitial gap or interstitial cavity is between at least a portion of two or more of the fabric materials layers of the protective garment and / or any component thereof. In this respect, two or more fabric material layers may sandwich an interstitial layer or interstitial cavity. In general, an interstitial cavity may provide a gap between the first fabric material layer and the second fabric material layer. It should be understood that the interstitial gap or interstitial cavity may include a gas, such as air. Notably, the interstitial cavity may at least partially separate a first fabric material layer and a second fabric material layer. Generally, the fabric material layers (e.g., first fabric material layer, second fabric material layer) of a protective garment and / or any component thereof (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve) may be non-laminated.

[0038] In general, the first fabric material layer and the second fabric material layer may not contact each other over at least a portion of the protective garment and / or any component thereof (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve). In some aspects, the first fabric material layer and the second fabric material layer may have intermittent contact with each other over at least a portion of the protective garment and / or any component thereof (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve). Notably, the first fabric material layer and / or the second fabric material layer may contact the interstitial gap or interstitial cavity.

[0039] Notably, as previously disclosed herein, a protective garment and / or any component thereof (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve) may include a first fabric material layer, an interstitial cavity, and a second fabric material layer. The inventors of the present disclosure have discovered that the utilization of a first fabric material layer and a second fabric material layer having an interstitial cavity therebetween in a protective garment is particularly beneficial at preventing liquids from penetrating the protective garment. In this respect, when a protective garment comprising a first fabric material layer, an interstitial cavity, and a second fabric material layer as the exterior layer is subjected to a liquid penetration test in accordance with EN ISO 811 , the interstitial cavity may be saturated for a liquid to penetrate the first fabric material layer. Notably, a liquid may have to penetrate theAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTsecond fabric material layer, which is the exterior layer, and then saturate the interstitial cavity such that enough pressure builds in the interstitial cavity for the liquid to penetrate the first fabric material layer.

[0040] Notably, a first fabric material layer or a second fabric material layer may be the innermost fabric material layer. In this respect, a first fabric material layer or a second fabric material layer may be the fabric material layer closest to the user of the protective garment. Notably, a first fabric material layer or a second fabric material layer may be the outermost fabric material layer. In this respect, a first fabric material layer or a second fabric material layer may be the fabric material farthest away from the user of the protective garment.

[0041] Generally, a second fabric material layer may be positioned on the exterior of a protective garment and / or any component thereof. In this respect, a second fabric material layer may be the barrier layer of a protective garment and / or any component thereof. In general, a first fabric material layer may be closer to the skin of a user. In this respect, a first fabric material layer may be positioned closer to the skin of a user than the second fabric material layer.

[0042] Referring now to FIG. 5, FIG. 5 illustrates a portion of a protective garment (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve) having a second fabric material layer 42, an interstitial cavity 44, and a first fabric material layer 46.Notably, as a first fabric material layer and a second fabric material layer approach a seam, the size of an interstitial gap between the first fabric material layer and the second fabric material layer may decrease. Further, a first fabric material layer and a second fabric material layer may come into contact at and / or adjacent to a seam.

[0043] Referring now to FIG. 6, FIG. 6 illustrates a portion of a protective garment (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve) having a second fabric material layer 42, an interstitial cavity 44, and a first fabric material layer 46.Further, FIG. 6 illustrates that a first fabric material layer 46 and a second fabric material layer 42 can be connected via a seam 30 having at least one seam yarn 31. Additionally, FIG. 6, illustrates that a first fabric material layer 46 and a second fabric material layer 42 can be connected and / or adjacent to a third fabric material layer 48 via a seam 30 having at least one seam yarn 31.Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT

[0044] Referring now to FIG. 7, FIG. 7 illustrates a portion of a protective garment (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve) having a second fabric material layer 42, an interstitial cavity 44, and a first fabric material layer 46.Further, FIG. 7 illustrates that a first fabric material layer 46 and a second fabric material layer 42 can be connected and / or adjacent to a third fabric material layer 48 and a fourth fabric material layer 50 via a seam 30 having at least one seam yarn 31. Generally, it should be understood that a first fabric material layer, a second fabric material layer, a third fabric material layer, a fourth fabric material layer, etc. may be connected via a seam having at least one seam yarn. It should be understood that a third fabric material layer and / or a fourth fabric material layer may have one or more of the features, properties, characteristics, configurations, etc. of the first fabric material layer and / or the second fabric material layer.

[0045] A protective garment and / or any component (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve) thereof may have a liquid penetration resistance as determined in accordance with EN ISO 811 of about 100 mm H2O or more, such as about 200 mm H2O or more, such as about 400 mm H2O or more, such as about 600 mm H2O or more, such as about 800 mm H2O or more, such as about 1000 mm H2O or more, such as about 1200 mm H2O or more, such as about 1400 mm H2O or more, such as about 1600 mm H2O or more, such as about 1800 mm H2O or more, such as about 2000 mm H2O or more. In general, a protective garment and / or any component (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve) thereof may have a liquid penetration resistance as determined in accordance with EN ISO 811 of about 3000 mm H2O or less, such as about 2800 mm H2O or less, such as about 2600 mm H2O or less, such as about 2400 mm H2O or less, such as about 2200 mm H2O or less, such as about 2000 mm H2O or less, such as about 1800 mm H2O or less, such as about 1600 mm H2O or less, such as about 1400 mm H2O or less, such as about 1200 mm H2O or less, such as about 1000 mm H2O or less, such as about 800 mm H2O or less, such as about 600 mm H2O or less, such as about 400 mm H2O or less, such as about 200 mm H2O or less.

[0046] A fabric material layer and / or a combination of fabric material layers (e.g., first fabric material layer, second fabric material layer) may have a liquid penetration resistance as determined in accordance with EN ISO 811 of about 100 mm H2O or more, such as about 200 mm H2O or more, such as about 400 mmAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTH2O or more, such as about 600 mm H2O or more, such as about 800 mm H2O or more, such as about 1000 mm H2O or more, such as about 1200 mm H2O or more, such as about 1400 mm H2O or more, such as about 1600 mm H2O or more, such as about 1800 mm H2O or more, such as about 2000 mm H2O or more. In general, a fabric material layer and / or a combination of fabric material layers (e.g., first fabric material layer, second fabric material layer) may have a liquid penetration resistance as determined in accordance with EN ISO 811 of about 3000 mm H2O or less, such as about 2800 mm H2O or less, such as about 2600 mm H2O or less, such as about 2400 mm H2O or less, such as about 2200 mm H2O or less, such as about 2000 mm H2O or less, such as about 1800 mm H2O or less, such as about 1600 mm H2O or less, such as about 1400 mm H2O or less, such as about 1200 mm H2O or less, such as about 1000 mm H2O or less, such as about 800 mm H2O or less, such as about 600 mm H2O or less, such as about 400 mm H2O or less, such as about 200 mm H2O or less. It should be understood that the combination of fabric material layers may include an interstitial cavity. For instance, in some aspects, a combination of one or more fabric material layers and an interstitial cavity, including any combinations disclosed herein, may have a liquid penetration resistance as determined in accordance with EN ISO 811 of from about 100 mm to about 3000 mm H2O, including all increments of 1 mm H2O therebetween.

[0047] Generally, a first fabric material layer and / or a second fabric material layer may pass or be in accordance with EN ISO 22612, EN ISO 22610, EN ISO 11737-1 , EN ISO 9073-10, EN ISO 811 , EN ISO 13938-1 , EN 29073-3, or a combination thereof. A first fabric material layer and / or a second fabric material layer may pass or be in accordance with the standard performance or high performance of a critical product area and / or less critical product area.

[0048] In some aspects, a first fabric material layer may have a higher air porosity than a second fabric material layer when tested according to ASTM Test D737. In some aspects, a second fabric material layer may have a higher liquid penetration performance as determined by cm H2O or mm H2O than a first fabric material layer when tested according to EN ISO 811. In this respect, a first fabric material layer may have increased breathability compared to the second fabricAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTmaterial layer while the second fabric material layer has increased liquid resistance compared to the first fabric material layer.

[0049] Generally, a fabric material layer formed in accordance with the present disclosure may include synthetic fibers in an amount from about 0 wt.% to about 100 wt.%, including all increments of 0.01 wt.% therebetween. For instance, synthetic fibers may be present in the fabric material layer in an amount of about 0 wt.% or more, such as about 10 wt.% or more, such as about 20 wt.% or more, such as about 30 wt.% or more, such as about 40 wt.% or more, such as about 50 wt.% or more, such as about 60 wt.% or more, such as about 70 wt.% or more, such as about 80 wt.% or more, such as about 90 wt.% or more. In general, synthetic fibers may be present in the fabric material layer in an amount of about 100 wt.% or less, such as about 90 wt.% or less, such as about 80 wt.% or less, such as about 70 wt.% or less, such as about 60 wt.% or less, such as about 50 wt.% or less, such as about 40 wt.% or less, such as about 30 wt.% or less, such as about 20 wt.% or less, such as about 10 wt.% or less.

[0050] In general, a fabric material layer (e.g., first fabric material layer, second fabric material layer) may be a woven fabric or a knitted fabric. In one aspect, one or more fabric material layers may comprise polyester. For instance, a fabric material layer may comprise polyester in an amount of about 50 wt.% or more, such as about 60 wt.% or more, such as about 70 wt.% or more, such as about 80 wt.% or more, such as about 85 wt.% or more, such as about 90 wt.% or more, such as about 95 wt.% or more, such as about 99 wt.% or more, such as about 100 wt.%. Generally, a fabric material layer may include polyester yarns formed from continuous filaments, such as polyester multifilament yarns.

[0051] Notably, the polyester of a fabric material layer may be a virgin polyester, a recycled polyester, or a combination thereof. A combination of a virgin polyester and a recycled polyester may be referred to as a partially recycled polyester.

[0052] In some aspects, a fabric material layer may include nylon fibers and / or acrylic fibers.

[0053] In some aspects, a fabric material layer formed in accordance with the present disclosure may include biodegradable fibers (e.g., biodegradable polyester fibers, biodegradable nylon fibers, biodegradable acrylic fibers) in an amount fromAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTabout 0 wt.% to about 100 wt.%, including all increments of 0.01 wt.% therebetween. For instance, biodegradable fibers may be present in the fabric material layer in an amount of about 0 wt.% or more, such as about 10 wt.% or more, such as about 20 wt.% or more, such as about 30 wt.% or more, such as about 40 wt.% or more, such as about 50 wt.% or more, such as about 60 wt.% or more, such as about 70 wt.% or more, such as about 80 wt.% or more, such as about 90 wt.% or more. In general, biodegradable fibers may be present in the fabric material layer in an amount of about 100 wt.% or less, such as about 90 wt.% or less, such as about 80 wt.% or less, such as about 70 wt.% or less, such as about 60 wt.% or less, such as about 50 wt.% or less, such as about 40 wt.% or less, such as about 30 wt.% or less, such as about 20 wt.% or less, such as about 10 wt.% or less.

[0054] In some aspects, a fabric material layer formed in accordance with the present disclosure may include bio-based fibers (e.g., bio-based polyester fibers, bio-based nylon fibers, bio-based acrylic fibers) in an amount from about 0 wt.% to about 100 wt.%, including all increments of 0.01 wt.% therebetween. As used herein, “bio-based fibers” refer to fibers that are made from non-petroleum sources. The bio-based fibers may be present in the fabric material layer in an amount of about 0 wt.% or more, such as about 10 wt.% or more, such as about 20 wt.% or more, such as about 30 wt.% or more, such as about 40 wt.% or more, such as about 50 wt.% or more, such as about 60 wt.% or more, such as about 70 wt.% or more, such as about 80 wt.% or more, such as about 90 wt.% or more. In general, bio-based fibers may be present in the fabric material layer in an amount of about 100 wt.% or less, such as about 90 wt.% or less, such as about 80 wt.% or less, such as about 70 wt.% or less, such as about 60 wt.% or less, such as about 50 wt.% or less, such as about 40 wt.% or less, such as about 30 wt.% or less, such as about 20 wt.% or less, such as about 10 wt.% or less.

[0055] Generally, a fabric material layer may comprise yarns. In some aspects, a fabric material layer may comprise 1 -ply yarns, 2-ply yarns, 3-ply yarns, or a combination thereof. In general, each yarn may include a single end or two ends. A fabric material layer may comprise yarns that are fully drawn yam or drawn textured yarns. It should be understood that a fabric material layer may comprise both fully drawn yarns and drawn textured yarns. In some aspects, the yarns mayAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTinclude flat yams that are not textured. Notably, the flat yam may be a fully oriented yam.

[0056] In some aspects, the yarn may be textured. In textured yarns, the filaments are distorted from their generally rectilinear condition to increase the bulk of the yarn and also to provide an ability for a fabric woven therefrom to stretch. A textured yam may be "set" by heat relaxation to minimize its stretch characteristic, while maintaining its increased bulk, i.e. , higher bulked denier.

[0057] There are several types of textured yarns capable of being produced by various methods. Different types of textured yarns have different characteristics, some being more expensive than others. The textured yarns that may be employed in the present fabric constructions, or referenced herein, are:(1) False twist yarn is twisted in one direction, set, then twisted in the opposite direction and set. The twisting, setting, opposite twisting are repeated throughout the length of the yarn.(2) Core and effect yam (also known as "core bulked" yarns) is a multiple ended yarn, usually comprising two ends in which one end is essentially straight. The filaments of other end are distorted around the core end and sometimes through the core end.(3) Air texturized core and effect yarn - is a core and effect yarn in which distortion of the filaments is done by air jet means. An air texturized core and effect yarn has unique properties which distinguish it from other textured yarns. These unique properties have been found effective in attaining the ends herein sought.

[0058] Notably, a fabric material layer may comprise yams in both the warp direction and the fill direction that have a relatively low denier. In general, a fabric material may comprise yarns that have a denier of about 300 or less, such as about 200 or less, such as about 150 or less, such as about 100 or less, such as about 80 or less. In general, the fabric material may comprise yams that have a denier of about 10 or more, such as about 25 or more, such as about 50 or more.

[0059] Notably, one or more yarns of a fabric material layer, such as each yarn of a fabric material layer, may comprise about 10 filaments or more, such as about 15 filaments or more, such as about 20 filaments or more, such as about 25 filaments or more, such as about 30 filaments or more, such as about 40 filamentsAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTor more, such as about 50 filaments or more, such as about 60 filaments or more, such as about 70 filaments or more, such as about 80 filaments or more. In general, one or more yarns of a fabric material layer, such as each yarn of a fabric material layer, may comprise about 110 filaments or less, such as about 100 filaments or less, such as about 90 filaments or less, such as about 80 filaments or less, such as about 70 filaments or less, such as about 60 filaments or less, such as about 50 filaments or less, such as about 40 filaments or less, such as about 30 filaments or less, such as about 25 filaments or less, such as about 20 filaments or less.

[0060] In some aspects, a fabric material layer may include anti-static fibers. Notably, anti-static yarns may comprise bicomponent filaments that include a polymer core surrounded by a carbon sheath.

[0061] In some aspects, a fabric material layer may have a relatively high yarn density. In general, a fabric material layer may have a yarn density of about 80 yarns per inch or more in the warp direction, such as about 100 yarns per inch or more, such as about 110 yarns per inch or more, such as about 120 yarns per inch or more, such as about 130 yarns per inch or more, such as about 140 yarns per inch or more, such as about 150 yarns per inch or more, such as about 160 yams per inch or more, such as about 170 yarns per inch or more, such as about 180 yarns per inch or more, such as about 190 yarns per inch or more in the warp direction. In general, a fabric material layer may have a yarn density of about 220 yarns per inch or less in the warp direction, such as about 200 yarns per inch or less, such as about 190 yarns per inch or less, such as about 180 yarns per inch or less, such as about 170 yams per inch or less, such as about 160 yams per inch or less, such as about 150 yarns per inch or less, such as about 140 yarns per inch or less, such as about 130 yarns per inch or less, such as about 120 yarns per inch or less, such as about 110 yarns per inch or less in the warp direction.

[0062] Generally, a fabric material layer may have a yarn density of about 50 yarns per inch or more in the fill direction, such as about 60 yarns per inch or more, such as about 70 yarns per inch or more, such as about 80 yarns per inch or more, such as about 90 yams per inch or more, such as about 100 yarns per inch or more, such as about 110 yarns per inch or more, such as about 120 yarns perAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTinch or more in the fill direction. In general, a fabric material layer may have a yarn density of about 130 yarns per inch or less in the fill direction, such as about 120 yarns per inch or less, such as about 110 yarns per inch or less, such as about 100 yarns per inch or less, such as about 90 yarns per inch or less, such as about 80 yarns per inch or less, such as about 70 yarns per inch or less, such as about 60 yams per inch or less in the fill direction.

[0063] A fabric material layer may have a basis weight from about 0.5 osy to about 5 osy, including all increments of 0.1 osy therebetween. Generally, a fabric material layer may have a basis weight of about 0.5 osy or more, such as about 1 osy or more, such as about 1.5 osy or more, such as about 2 osy or more, such as about 2.5 osy or more, such as about 3 osy or more, such as about 3.5 osy or more, such as about 4 osy or more, such as about 4.5 osy or more. In general, a fabric material layer may have a basis weight of about 5 osy or less, such as about 4.5 osy or less, such as about 4 osy or less, such as about 3.5 osy or less, such as about 3 osy or less, such as about 2.5 osy or less, such as about 2 osy or less, such as about 1.5 osy or less.

[0064] In some aspects, a fabric material layer may be calendered. Notably, calendering can increase the barrier properties and reduce the permeability of a fabric material layer. In general, during calendering, a fabric is passed between a pair of pressure rolls wherein at least one of the rolls is heated. When a woven polyester fabric is calendered, the fabric is compressed and its density is increased as the interstices between the yarns and the filaments of the yarns are decreased.

[0065] Notably, when tested according to AATCC 127, a fabric material layer may have a hydrostatic head of greater than about 45 cm, such as greater than about 60 cm, such as greater than about 70 cm, such as greater than about 75 cm. A fabric material layer may have an air porosity when tested according to ASTM Test D737 of from about 0.75 ft3 / min / ft2to about 2.75 ft3 / min / ft2, including all increments of 0.01 ft3 / m in / ft2therebetween. When tested according to AATCC 42, a fabric material layer may display an impact penetration of less than about 0.2 grams, such as less than about 0.1 grams.

[0066] Notably, a fabric material layer may have a tensile strength (ASTM Test D5034) in the warp direction of about 190 Ibf or more, such as about 200 Ibf or more, such as about 210 Ibf or more, such as about 220 Ibf or more, such as aboutAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT230 Ibf or more, such as about 240 Ibf or more, such as about 250 Ibf or more. In general, a fabric material layer may have a tensile strength (ASTM Test D5034) in the warp direction of about 260 Ibf or less, such as about 250 Ibf or less, such as about 240 Ibf or less, such as about 230 Ibf or less, such as about 220 Ibf or less, such as about 210 Ibf or less, such as about 200 Ibf or less.

[0067] In general, a fabric material layer may have a tensile strength (ASTM Test D5034) in the fill direction of about 80 Ibf or more, such as about 100 Ibf or more, such as about 120 Ibf or more, such as about 140 Ibf or more, such as about 160 Ibf or more, such as about 180 Ibf or more. A fabric material layer may have a tensile strength (ASTM Test D5034) in the fill direction of about 190 Ibf or less, such as about 180 Ibf or less, such as about 160 Ibf or less, such as about 140 Ibf or less, such as about 120 Ibf or less, such as about 100 Ibf or less.

[0068] Generally, a fabric material layer may have a tear strength (ASTM Test D5587) in the warp direction of about 20 Ibf or more, such as about 25 Ibf or more, such as about 30 Ibf or more, such as about 35 Ibf or more. A fabric material layer may have a tear strength (ASTM Test D5587) in the warp direction of about 40 Ibf or less, such as about 35 Ibf or less, such as about 30 Ibf or less, such as about 25 Ibf or less.

[0069] Notably, a fabric material layer may have a tear strength (ASTM Test D5587) in the fill direction of about 5 Ibf or more, such as about 6 Ibf or more, such as about 8 Ibf or more, such as about 10 Ibf or more, such as about 12 Ibf or more. In general, a fabric material layer may have a tear strength (ASTM Test D5587) in the fill direction of about 15 Ibf or less, such as about 12 Ibf or less, such as about 10 Ibf or less, such as about 8 Ibf or less.

[0070] A fabric material layer may have a bursting strength (ASTM Test D3786) of about 200 lbs or more, such as about 220 lbs or more, such as about 240 lbs or more, such as about 260 lbs or more, such as about 280 lbs or more. In general, a fabric material layer may have a bursting strength (ASTM Test D3786) of about 300 lbs or less, such as about 280 lbs or less, such as about 260 lbs or less, such as about 240 lbs or less, such as about 220 lbs or less.

[0071] In some aspects, a fabric material layer may have a seam strength (ASTM Test D1683) in the warp direction of about 60 Ibf or more, such as about 70 Ibf or more, such as about 80 Ibf or more, such as about 90 Ibf or more, such asAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTabout 100 Ibf or more, such as about 110 Ibf or more. A fabric material layer may have a seam strength (ASTM Test D1683) in the warp direction of about 120 Ibf or less, such as about 110 Ibf or less, such as about 100 Ibf or less, such as about 90 Ibf or less, such as about 80 Ibf or less, such as about 70 Ibf or less.

[0072] In some aspects, a fabric material layer may have a seam strength (ASTM Test D1683) in the fill direction of about 50 Ibf or more, such as about 55 Ibf or more, such as about 60 Ibf or more, such as about 65 Ibf or more, such as about 70 Ibf or more, such as about 75 Ibf or more, such as about 80 Ibf or more. A fabric material layer may have a seam strength (ASTM Test D1683) in the fill direction of about 90 Ibf or less, such as about 80 Ibf or less, such as about 75 Ibf or less, such as about 70 Ibf or less, such as about 65 Ibf or less, such as about 60 Ibf or less, such as about 55 Ibf or less.

[0073] Durable Water-Resistant Treatment

[0074] Notably, one or more fabric material layers of the protective garment may include a durable water-resistant treatment. The durable water-resistant treatment may prevent liquids (e.g., water, oil, bodily fluids) from being absorbed by the fabric. The durable water-resistant treatment may also make the fabric resistant to various solvents and / or may make the fabric more abrasion-resistant.

[0075] Generally, the durable water-resistant treatment and / or any components thereof may form a coating on one or more fabric material layers, such as two or more fabric material layers, such as three or more fabric material layers. Notably, in some aspects, a coating may be formed by a durable water-resistant treatment on the surface of a fabric material layer (e.g., first fabric material layer, second fabric material layer) facing toward an interstitial cavity. In some aspects, a coating may be formed by a durable water-resistant treatment on the surface of a fabric material layer (e.g., first fabric material layer, second fabric material layer) facing away from an interstitial cavity. In this respect, in some aspects, a coating may be formed by a durable water-resistant treatment on the surface of a fabric material layer opposite the surface of a fabric material layer facing an interstitial cavity. For instance, a coating formed by one or more components of a durable water-resistant treatment on the external surface of a protective garment, the external surface being the most external surface of the most external fabric material layer.Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT

[0076] Notably, in some aspects, a first coating may be present on at least one of the surfaces of at least one fabric material layer (e.g., first fabric material layer, second fabric material layer) and a second coating may be present on at least one different surface of at least one fabric material layer (e.g., first fabric material layer, second fabric material layer). The first coating may have a different composition from the second coating. In some aspects, two or more fabric material layers may include three or more coatings, such as four or more coatings. Each coating may be on a different surface of the two or more fabric material layers.

[0077] Referring now to FIG. 8, FIG. 8 illustrates a portion of a protective garment (e.g., body portion, first sleeve, second sleeve) having a second fabric material layer 42, an interstitial cavity 44, and a first fabric material layer 46.Notably, the first fabric material layer 46 has a coating 60 formed by a durable water-resistant treatment present thereon. Notably, the coating 60 is present on the surface of the first fabric material layer 46 facing the interstitial cavity 44.

[0078] Prior to applying the durable water-resistant treatment, the fabric can optionally be scoured, dried and heat set. Although the durable water-resistant treatment can be sprayed or printed onto the fabric, in one embodiment, the fabric is dipped into a bath containing the durable water-resistant treatment. The durable water-resistant treatment can impregnate the fabric.

[0079] In some aspects, a durable water-resistant treatment may include a binder, an extender, a repelling agent, a softener, a wetting agent, or a combination thereof. After the durable water-resistant treatment is applied to the fabric, the fabric can be heated to a temperature sufficient for the durable water-resistant treatment to dry and cure.

[0080] Notably, a binder may comprise a polyurethane polymer. Of particular advantage, the polyurethane polymer may be water-based and thus can be applied to the fabric in an aqueous dispersion. In one aspect, the polyurethane polymer is an anionic polyurethane. The polyurethane polymer may be an aliphatic polyurethane. In one particular aspect, the polyurethane polymer that makes up the binder is a polyester / ether polyurethane polymer, such as an aliphatic polyester / ether polyurethane polymer. The polyurethane polymer may be a thermoplastic polyurethane.Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT

[0081] Notably, an extender may comprise a polyurethane polymer. Thus, in some aspects, the durable water-resistant treatment includes a first polyurethane polymer combined with a second polyurethane polymer. The extender, for instance, can comprise a modified polyurethane polymer. For instance, the extender may be a blocked isocyanate, such as an oxime-blocked isocyanate. The extender may be cationic or nonionic. The extender is for further increasing water and oil resistance.

[0082] As previously disclosed herein, the durable water-resistant treatment may comprise a repelling agent. The repelling agent may include an acrylic polymer alone or in combination with a wax, such as a paraffin wax. In one aspect, the repelling agent may include a polyacrylate that also serves as a binder.

[0083] As previously disclosed herein, the durable water-resistant treatment may comprise a softener. A softener may comprise an emulsion of a polyalkylene polymer. The softener is generally nonionic. In one embodiment, the softener is a polyethylene polymer, such as a lower molecular weight polyethylene polymer. In some aspects, durable water-resistant treatment may comprise a wetting agent, such as isopropyl alcohol.

[0084] In general, a binder, an extender, a repelling agent, a softener, a wetting agent, ora combination thereof may be combined with water for application to a fabric. The relative amounts of each component can vary depending on the particular formulation. In one embodiment, for instance, the binder or first polyurethane can be present in relation to the extender or second polyurethane in a weight ratio of from about 5:1 to about 1 :2, such as in a weight ratio of from about 4: 1 to 1 : 1. In one embodiment, the binder and extender are present in a weight ratio of from about 3: 1 to about 1.5:1 based on the dried weight of the finish. The repelling agent can be present in amounts greater than the binder or the extender. For instance, the weight ratio (based on the dried weight of the finish) between the binder or extender and the repelling agent can be from about 3:1 to about 1:8, such as from about 1:1 to about 1:5, such as from about 1:1.5 to about 1 :3.

[0085] When included in the formulation, the softener may be present in amounts less than the binder, the repelling agent, or the extender. For example, inAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTone embodiment, the softener may be present in relation to the binder in a weight ratio of from about 1 :1 to about 1 :4, such as from about 1 :1.5 to about 1 :3.

[0086] In general, a fabric material layer, a protective garment, and / or a durable water-resistant treatment may be substantially free of fluorocarbon chemicals and / or fluorine. Substantially free, as used herein, indicates that a fabric material layer, a protective garment, and / or a durable water-resistant treatment contain fluorocarbon chemicals and / or fluorine in an amount less than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.25% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.1% by weight. Further, for instance, a fabric material layer, a protective garment, and / or a durable water-resistant treatment may contain fluorine in an amount less than about 1 ,000 ppm, such as in an amount less than about 500 ppm, such as in an amount less than about 100 ppm, such as in an amount less than about 50 ppm, such as in an amount less than about 40 ppm, such as in an amount less than about 30 ppm, such as in an amount less than about 20 ppm. Further, for instance, a fabric material layer, a protective garment, and / or a durable water-resistant treatment may contain fluorine in an amount less than about 1 ,000 ppb, such as in an amount less than about 500 ppb, such as in an amount less than about 100 ppb, such as in an amount less than about 50 ppb, such as in an amount less than about 40 ppb, such as in an amount less than about 30 ppb, such as in an amount less than about 20 ppb.

[0087] In some aspects, the durable water resistant treatment is made from a solution containing a fluorocarbon polymer, such as a polytetrafluoroethylene polymer, particularly a C6 polytetrafluoroethylene polymer. When containing a fluorocarbon polymer, the durable water resistant treatment may contain, for instance, a wetting agent, an extender, and optionally a binder.

[0088] Fluorinated durable water resistant treatments can be water and oil repellent compositions containing a copolymer made of side chain fluorotelomer based polymers. Once applied to the fabric, the polymer particle spreads to cover the fabric surface during drying and curing. The fluoroalkyl chains orient perpendicular to the fabric surface to provide low surface energy and enhance the oleophobic properties of textiles. In one aspect, the durable water resistantAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTtreatment contains a C6 fluorocarbon polymer.

[0089] In some aspects, a fabric material layer, a protective garment, and / or a durable water-resistant treatment may contain fluorocarbon chemicals (e.g., a fluorocarbon polymer) and / or fluorine in an amount of about 0.001% by weight or more, such as about 0.01 % by weight or more, such as about 0.1 % by weight or more, such as about 1 % by weight or more, such as about 2% by weight or more, such as about 5% by weight or more. In general, a fabric material layer, a protective garment, and / or a durable water-resistant treatment may contain fluorocarbon chemicals and / or fluorine in an amount of about 20% by weight or less, such as about 15% by weight or less, such as about 10% by weight or less, such as about 5% by weight or less, such as about 2.5% by weight or less.

[0090] In general, the fluorine content in a fabric material layer and / or a protective garment may be determined using particle-induced gamma emission (PIGE). PIGE is a form of nuclear reaction analysis using an ion beam analysis through thin-film analytical techniques. A MeV proton beam is projected on to a fabric material and / or a protective garment and the protons excite the target nuclei such that gamma rays are emitted which can produce a spectrum for determining fluorine content.

[0091] In one aspect, the durable water-resistant treatment is free or is substantially free of perfluorinated carboxylic acids, such as free or substantially free of perfluorooctanoic acid. For example, perfluorooctanoic acid or any perfluorinated carboxylic acids may be present in the durable water-resistant treatment and / or in a treated fabric in an amount less than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1 % by weight, such as in an amount of less than 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.25% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.1 % by weight.

[0092] In another aspect, the durable water-resistant treatment can be free or substantially free of polyfluoroalkyl compounds, including C6 compounds. For instance, the durable water-resistant treatment and / or the treated fabric can contain one or more polyfluoroalkyl compounds in an amount less than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.25% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.1 % by weight.Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT

[0093] Although durable water-resistant treatments greatly improve the barrier properties of the fabric, these treatments can be problematic for attaching seam tapes to the seams of the garment. The adhesive layer of the present disclosure, however, has been found to securely affix to a fabric, even if the fabric has been treated with a durable water-resistant treatment, which may include a fluorocarbon chemical.

[0094] In one embodiment, the durable water-resistant treatment can be combined with one or more antimicrobial agents in order to provide fabrics and garments with antiviral properties. The antimicrobial agents can be combined directly with the durable water-resistant treatment or can be applied to a fabric material layer or a protective garment separately. In general, the antimicrobial agent may include metal-based / non-metal-based chemistries including silver based inorganic agents, silver and zinc zeolites, silver copper zeolites, silver zeolites, metal oxides, silicates, and quaternary ammonium compounds.

[0095] Generally, the antimicrobial agent may comprise a silver-containing material, such as silver metal particles or silver ion polymers, quaternary compounds such as quaternary silane or quaternary ammonium cations, pyrithione compounds including zinc pyrithione and / or sodium pyrithione, chitosan, copper-containing materials, triclosan, or mixtures thereof.

[0096] Each antimicrobial agent can be present on a protective garment and / or a fabric material layer in any suitable amount depending upon the particular application and the particular antimicrobial agent selected. For example, the antimicrobial agent can be present on a protective garment and / or a fabric material layer in an amount greater than about 0.001 % by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.01 % by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.7% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 3% by weight. Each antimicrobial agent is generally present on a protective garment and / or a fabric material layer in an amount less than about 30% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 20% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 10% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 3%Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTby weight, such as in an amount less than about 1.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1% by weight.

[0097] In some aspects, the antimicrobial agent comprises a metal ion. In one aspect, for example, a metal ion containing ion-exchange agent is used.Alternatively, the antimicrobial agent can be a water soluble salt or water soluble particles containing free metal ions. Metal ions that may be included in the antimicrobial agent include, for instance, silver, copper, zinc, gold, iron, cobalt, nickel, manganese, antimony, bismuth, barium, cadmium, chromium, and mixtures thereof. In one aspect, the metal ions are silver, copper, gold, zinc and combinations thereof. In one particular embodiment, for instance, the antimicrobial agent can comprise silver ions alone or in combination with copper ions, zinc ions, or both copper ions and zinc ions.

[0098] Ion-exchange type antimicrobial agents are typically characterized as comprising an ion-exchange capable ceramic particle having ion-exchanged antimicrobial metal ions, i.e., the antimicrobial metal ions have been exchanged for (replaced) other ions in and / or on the ceramic particles. While these materials may have some surface adsorbed or deposited metal, the predominant antimicrobial effect is as a result of the ion-exchanged antimicrobial metal ions released from within the ceramic particles themselves.

[0099] Antimicrobial ceramic particles include, but are not limited to zeolites, calcium phosphates, hydroxyapatite, zirconium phosphates and other ionexchange ceramics. These ceramic materials come in many forms and types, including natural and synthetic forms. For example, the broad term “zeolite” refers to aluminosilicates having a three dimensional skeletal structure that is represented by the formula: XM2 / nO — AI2O3 — YSiO2 — ZH2O wherein M represents an ion-exchangeable ion, generally a monovalent or divalent metal ion; n represents the atomic valence of the (metal) ion; X and Y represent coefficients of metal oxide and silica, respectively; and Z represents the number of water of crystallization. Examples of such zeolites include A-type zeolites, X-type zeolites, Y-type zeolites, T-type zeolites, high-silica zeolites, sodalite, mordenite, analcite, clinoptilolite, chabazite, and erionite.[000100] Generally speaking, the ion-exchange type antimicrobial agents may be prepared by an ion-exchange reaction in which non-antimicrobial ions present inAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTthe ceramic particles, for example sodium ions, calcium ions, potassium ions and iron ions in the case of zeolites, are partially or wholly replaced with the antimicrobial metal ions, for example, copper and / or silver ions. The combined weight of the antimicrobial metal ions may be in the range of from about 0.1 to about 35 wt. %, preferably from about 1 to 25 wt. %, more preferably from about 2 to about 20 wt. %, most preferably, from about 2.5 to 15 wt. %, of the ceramic particle based upon 100% total weight of the ceramic particle. Where the ceramic particles include two or more different antimicrobial metal ions, each antiviral metal ion may be present in an amount of from about 0.1 to about 25 wt. %, preferably from about 0.3 to about 15 wt. %, most preferably from about 2 to about 10 wt. % of the ceramic particle based on 100% total weight of the ceramic particle.[000101] In one aspect, the particles may contain both silver ions in combination with copper ions and optionally with an organosilane-based quaternary ammonium compound. In these instances, the weight ratio of silver to copper ions is from 1:10 to 10:1, preferably from 5:1 to 1:5, most preferably from 2.5:1 to 1:2.5. In an especially preferred embodiment, the ceramic particle contains from about 0.3 to about 15 wt. % of silver ions and from about 0.3 to about 15 wt, % of copper ions in a weight ratio of 5:1 to 1 :5. Exemplary compositions are disclosed in US 2006 / 0156948A1 and 2008 / 0152905A1 , both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.[000102] The antimicrobial ceramic particles may also contain other ion-exchanged ions for various purposes, particularly ions that improve color stability of the fabrics and / or overall stability and / or ion release characteristics of ceramic particles. An exemplary and preferred other ion is ammonium ion.[000103] The preferred antimicrobial ion-exchange agents are the antimicrobial aluminosilicates, specifically the zeolites. A number of different grades and types of antiviral zeolites are commercially available including about 0.6% silver; about 2.5% silver; about 2.5% silver, 14% zinc, and 0.5%-2.5% ammonium ions; and about 6.0% copper and about 3.5% silver.[000104] The above metal ions are described as having antimicrobial properties. The metal ions are very effective against all different types of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and / or fungi.Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT[000105] In general, the one or more antimicrobial agents are applied to a protective garment and / or a fabric material layer in an amount from about 0.05 gsm to about 2 gsm, including all increments of 0.05 gsm therebetween. For instance, the one or more antimicrobial agents can be applied to a protective garment and / or a fabric material layer in an amount greater than about 0.1 gsm, such as greater than about 0.3 gsm, such as greater than about 0.5 gsm, such as greater than about 0.7 gsm, and generally less than about 1.5 gsm, such as less than about 1.3 gsm, such as less than about 1 gsm, such as less than about 0.7 gsm.[000106] In one particular aspect, the antimicrobial agent contains zeolite particles containing silver in an amount from about 3% to about 15% by weight, such as in an amount from about 7% to about 12% by weight. The antimicrobial agent may also contain zeolite particles containing both silver and copper ions generally in an amount from about 6% by weight to about 20% by weight, such as in an amount from about 11% by weight to about 17% by weight.[000107] In some aspects, the durable water-resistant treatment may include a silicone composition, a polyurethane composition, or a neoprene composition. In general, the polyurethane composition and the neoprene composition may include a polyurethane polymer (e.g., polyurethane elastomer) and a neoprene polymer (e.g., neoprene rubber) respectively. Generally, the durable water-resistant treatment may include a silicone composition, such as a silicone polymer (e.g., silicone rubber). For instance, the durable water-resistant treatment may contain a polydiorganosiloxane. The polydiorganosiloxane may be in combination with a catalyst and optionally an adhesion promoter.[000108] In one embodiment, the silicone composition comprises a polydiorganosiloxane containing at least two alkenyl groups per molecule; a polyorganohydrogenosiloxane containing at least two hydrogen atoms linked to silicon in each molecule; a metallic catalyst of the platinum group; an adhesion promoter that may include an epoxy-functional organosilicon compound; a mineral filler; a resin polyorganosiloxane; and optionally a compound that is useful as a curing inhibitor.[000109] In another embodiment, the silicone composition comprises a polydiorganosiloxane containing at least two alkenyl groups per molecule; aAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTpolyorganohydrogenosiloxane containing at least two hydrogen atoms linked to silicone in each molecule; a silane containing a methacrylic function; an epoxyalkoxysilane; an aluminium chelate; and a metallic catalyst of the platinum group.[000110] In still another embodiment, the silicone composition comprises at least one polyorganosiloxane containing, per molecule, at least two C2-C6 alkenyl groups linked to silicon; at least one polyorganosiloxane containing, per molecule, at least two hydrogen atoms linked to silicon; a catalytically effective amount of at least one catalyst, composed of at least one metal belonging to the platinum group; an adhesion promoter; optionally, a mineral filler; optionally, at least one curing inhibitor; and optionally, at least one polyorganosiloxane resin,in which composition the adhesion promoter may comprise a ternary combination of the following ingredients: at least one alkoxylated organosiloxane containing, per molecule, at least one C2-C6 alkenyl group; at least one organosilicon compound comprising at least one epoxy radical; and at least one metal chelate M and / or a metal alkoxide of the general formula: M(OJ)n, with n=valency of M and J=linear or branched C1-C8 alkyl, M being chosen from the group formed by: Ti, Zr, Ge, Li, Mn, Fe, Al and Mg.[000111] In one particular embodiment, the silicone composition comprises a polyorganosiloxane that may be cured. The composition, for instance, may comprise at least one polyorganosiloxane (I) containing, per molecule, at least two C2-C6 alkenyl groups linked to silicon; at least one polyorganosiloxane (II) containing, per molecule, at least two hydrogen atoms linked to silicon; a catalytically effective amount of at least one catalyst (III), composed of at least one metal belonging to the platinum group; at least one adhesion promoter (IV); an additive system (B) for improving the combing strength and the tear strength, the constituents of which are added sequentially or simultaneously, comprising a mixture formed from: (1) at least one polyorganosiloxane resin (V) present at up to 60% by weight relative to the total weight of the mixture and optionally mixed with at least one polyorganosiloxane serving as diluent, and (2) calcium carbonate (CaCOs) present at up to 30% by weight relative to the total weight of the mixture; optionally, at least one curing inhibitor (VI); optionally, at least one colorationAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTadditive (VII); and optionally, at least one additive (VIII) for improving the fire resistance.[000112] In one embodiment, one or more polyorganosiloxane resins may be present in the silicone composition in an amount from about 5% to about 60% by weight, such as in an amount from about 10% to about 30% by weight.[000113] The polyorganosiloxane used to produce the silicone composition may comprise: (i) siloxyl units of formula:in which:the symbols R1represent an alkenyl group, preferably vinyl or allyl,the symbols Z, which may be identical or different, each represent a monovalent hydrocarbon-based group, free of unfavourable action on the activity of the catalyst and chosen from alkyl groups containing from 1 to 8 carbon atoms inclusive, optionally substituted with at least one halogen atom, and also from aryl groups,a is 1 or 2, b is 0, 1 or 2 and the sum a+b is equal to 1 , 2 or 3, and optionally (ii) other siloxyl units of formula:4 — cZrSiO -c2in which:Z has the same meaning as above and c is 0, 1 , 2 or 3.[000114] This polydiorganosiloxane (I) may have a viscosity at least equal to 200 mPa.s and preferably less than 200,000 mPa.s.[000115] All the viscosities concerned in the present specification correspond to a dynamic viscosity magnitude that is measured, in a manner that is known per se, at 25°C.[000116] The polyorganosiloxane (I) may be formed solely from units of formula (1-1) or may contain, in addition, units of formula (I-2). Similarly, it may have a linear, branched, cyclic or network structure. Z is generally chosen from methyl, ethyl and phenyl radicals, 60 mol % (or in numerical terms) at least of the radicals Z being methyl radicals. Examples of siloxyl units of formula (1-1) areAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTvinyldimethylsiloxyl, vinylphenylmethylsiloxyl, vinylmethylsiloxyl and vinylsiloxyl units.[000117] Examples of siloxyl units of formula (1-2) are the units SiO4 / 2, dimethylsiloxyl, methylphenylsiloxyl, diphenylsiloxyl, methylsiloxyl and phenylsiloxyl. Examples of polyorganosiloxanes (I) are linear and cyclic compounds, for instance: dimethyl-polysiloxanes containing dimethylvinylsilyl end groups, (methylvinyl)(dimethyl)-polysil- oxane copolymers containing trimethylsilyl end groups, (methylvinyl)(dimethyl)-polysiloxane copolymers containing dimethylvinylsilyl end groups and cyclic methylvinylpolysiloxanes.[000118] Advantageously, the polyorganosiloxane (II) comprises siloxyl units of formula:in which:the groups L, which may be identical or different, each represent a monovalent hydrocarbon-based group, free of unfavourable action on the activity of the catalyst and chosen, preferably, from an alkyl group containing from 1 to 8 carbon atoms inclusive, optionally substituted with at least one halogen atom, advantageously from methyl, ethyl, propyl and 3,3,3-trifluoropropyl groups, an aryl group, and advantageously a xylyl, tolyl or phenyl radical,d is 1 or 2, e is 0, 1 or 2, the sum d+e is equal to 1 ,2 or 3, andoptionally, at least some of the other units being units of mean formula:in which:the groups L have the same meaning as above and g is equal to 0, 1 , 2 or 3.[000119] The dynamic viscosity of this polyorganosiloxane (II) is at least equal to 10 mPa.s and preferably between 20 and 1000 mPa.s. The polyorganosiloxane (II) may be formed solely from units of formula (11-1) or may also comprise units of formula (II-2). The polyorganosiloxane (II) may have a linear, branched, cyclic orAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTnetwork structure. The group L has the same meaning as the group Z above. Examples of units of formula (11-1) are H(CH3)2SiOi / 2, HCH3SiO2 / 2 and H(C6Hs)SiO2 / 2.[000120] The examples of units of formula (I I-2) are the same as those given above for the units of formula (I-2).[000121] Examples of polyorganosiloxanes (II) are linear and cyclic compounds, for instance: dimethylpolysiloxanes containing hydrogenodimethylsilyl end groups; copolymers containing (dimethyl)(hydrogenomethyl)polysiloxane units containing trimethylsilyl end groups; copolymers containing (dimethyl)(hydrogenomethyl)polysiloxane units containing hydrogenodimethylsilyl end groups; hydrogenomethylpolysiloxanes containing trimethylsilyl end groups; cyclic hydrogenomethylpolysiloxanes.[000122] The compound (II) may optionally be a mixture of a dimethylpolysiloxane containing hydrogenodimethylsilyl end groups and of a polyorganosiloxane bearing at least three functions Si H (hydrogenosiloxyle).[000123] The ratio of the number of hydrogen atoms linked to silicon in the polyorgano-siloxane (II) to the total number of groups containing alkenyl unsaturation of the polyorganosiloxane (I) and of the resin (V) is between 0.4 and 10 and preferably between 0.6 and 5.[000124] The bases of silicone polyaddition compositions may comprise only linear polyorganosiloxanes (I) and (II), for instance those described in patents: U.S. Pat. No. 3,220,972, U.S. Pat. No. 3,697,473 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,340,709 or may comprise both branched or network polyorganosiloxanes (I) and (II), for instance those described in patents: U.S. Pat. No. 3,284,406 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,434,366.[000125] According to one particular embodiment, the following are used: at least one linear polyorganosiloxane (I) comprising chains formed from units of formula (I-2) in which c=2, blocked at each of their ends with units of formula (1-1) in which a=1 and b=2, and at least one linear polyorganosiloxane (II) comprising in its structure at least three hydrogen atoms linked to silicon, located in the chains and / or at chain ends; and even more particularly: at least one linear polyorganosiloxane (I) comprising chains formed from units of formula (I-2) in which c=2, blocked at each of their ends with units of formula (1-1) in which a=1Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTand b=2 , and at least one linear polyorganosiloxane (I) comprising chains formed from units of formula (11-1) in which d=1 and e=1 and optionally units of formula (II-2) in which g=2, blocked at each of their ends with units of formula (11-1 ) in which d=1 and e=2.[000126] In one embodiment, a silicone composition (e.g., a silicone rubber) is used that has a viscosity of greater than about 5000 mPa.s, such as greater than about 8000 mPa.s, such as greater than about 10,000 mPa.s, such as greater than about 12,000 mPa.s. The composition can generally have a viscosity of less than about 70,000 mPa.s, such as less than about 60,000 mPa.s, such as less than about 50,000 mPa.s, such as less than about 40,000 mPa.s, such as less than about 30,000 mPa.s, such as less than about 25,000 mPa.s, such as less than about 20,000 mPa.s. A silicon rubber can have a shore A hardness of greater than about 25, such as greater than about 30, such as greater than about 35, such as greater than about 40, such as greater than about 45. The shore A hardness is generally less than about 80, such as less than about 70, such as less than about 60.[000127] Alternatively, a silicone composition applied to the fabric can be a two-part mixture containing a silicone oil and a catalyst. The silicone can be a siloxane (e.g. polydimethylsiloxane) and the mixture can have a liquid viscosity at room temperature. For instance, the viscosity of the mixture can be less than about 20,000 mPa at 23°C, such as less than about 10,000 mPa, such as less than about 5,000 mPa, and greater than about 500 mPa. The silicone mixture can be knife coated onto the fabric.[000128] In general, the silicone composition may be nonionic, cationic, and / or anionic. Notably, the silicone composition may contain a nonionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, and / or an anionic surfactant. In some aspects, the silicone composition may be an emulsion. In some aspects, the silicone composition may contain a silica, such as a trimethylated silica. In some aspects, the silicone composition may contain an alcohol, such as a glycol.[000129] Generally, the silicone composition may have an active solids content from about 10 wt.% to about 90 wt.%, including all increments of about 1 wt.% therebetween. In general, the silicone composition may have an active solids content of about 10 wt.% or more, such as about 20 wt.% or more, such as aboutAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT30 wt.% or more, such as about 40 wt.% or more, such as about 50 wt.% or more, such as about 60 wt.% or more, such as about 70 wt.% or more, such as about 80 wt.% or more. Generally, the silicone composition may have an active solids content of about 90 wt.% or less, such as about 80 wt.% or less, such as about 70 wt.% or less, such as about 60 wt.% or less, such as about 50 wt.% or less, such as about 40 wt.% or less, such as about 30 wt.% or less, such as about 20 wt.% or less. In some aspects, the aforementioned percentages may refer to volume percentages. In this respect, the silicone composition may have an active solids content of about 10% to about 90% by volume of the silicone composition, including all increments of about 1% therebetween.[000130] In general, the silicone composition may have a non-volatile silicone particle content of about 30 wt.% to about 98 wt.%, including all increments of about 1 wt.% therebetween. In general, the silicone composition may have a nonvolatile silicone particle content of about 30 wt.% or more, such as about 40 wt.% or more, such as about 50 wt.% or more, such as about 60 wt.% or more, such as about 70 wt.% or more, such as about 80 wt.% or more, such as about 90 wt.% or more. Generally, the silicone composition may have a non-volatile silicone particle content of about 98 wt.% or less, such as about 95 wt.% or less, such as about 90 wt.% or less, such as about 80 wt.% or less, such as about 70 wt.% or less, such as about 60 wt.% or less, such as about 50 wt.% or less, such as about 40 wt.% or less, such as about 30 wt.% or less, such as about 20 wt.% or less. In some aspects, the aforementioned percentages may refer to volume percentages. In this respect, the silicone composition may have a non-volatile silicone particle content of about 30% to about 98% by volume of the silicone composition, including all increments of about 1% therebetween.[000131] The silicone polymer may be a silicone copolymer. In some aspects, the silicone polymer may be a polysiloxane, such as dimethylpolysiloxane. The silicone polymer may be soluble in water. Generally, the silicone polymer is cationic or nonionic. The silicone polymer can have an undiluted pH from about 8 to about 12, such as a pH of greater than about 8, such as a pH of greater than about 9, such as a pH of greater than about 10, such as a pH greater than about 11. In general, the silicone polymer has a pH less than about 12, such as a pH less than about 11 , such as a pH less than about 10, such as a pH less than aboutAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT9. In one aspect, the silicone polymer has a pH of about 10. The silicone polymer may provide enhanced water resistance properties, increased resistance to seamslippage, and improved abrasion resistance, while also providing for softness.[000132] The silicone polymer may be substantially free of amino modified silicone, such as poly(dimethylsiloxane), 3-aminopropyl terminated. In this respect, the silicone polymer may contain a selectively chosen amount of amino modified silicone. As previously disclosed, substantially free, as used herein, indicates that the silicone polymer contains amino modified silicone in an amount less than about 3% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.25% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.1% by weight.[000133] Similarly, the durable water-resistant treatment may be substantially free of amino modified silicone, such as poly(dimethylsiloxane), 3-aminopropyl terminated. In this respect, the durable water-resistant treatment may contain a selectively chosen amount of amino modified silicone. For instance, the durable water-resistant treatment may contain amino modified silicone in an amount less than about 3% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.3% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.1% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.01% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.001% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.0001% by weight.[000134] Generally, amino modified silicones behave cationically in an acidic medium. However, when utilized in an alkaline medium, the positive charge of the amino modified silicone may be lost, resulting in the aggregation of silicone oil. When a durable water-resistant treatment comprising an amino modified silicone is applied to a fabric material, the aggregation of silicone oil may result in undesirable yellowing or staining of the fabric material. In this respect, as the amino modified silicone content of the silicone composition decreases, the yellowing and / or staining of a fabric material treated with a durable water-resistant treatment containing the silicone composition may decrease.[000135] Generally, amino modified silicone is in the form of an emulsion whenAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTincluded in a durable water-resistant treatment. The inclusion of amino modified silicone in an emulsion may result in the instability of the emulsion and / or the coalescence of the amino modified silicone in the emulsion. For instance, the coalescence of the amino modified silicone may be disadvantageous as it may result in the non-uniform application of the durable water-resistant treatment to a fabric material. Further, for instance, coalescence of the amino modified silicone in the emulsion may result in the formation of silicone oil spots on the treated fabric material, which may be aesthetically unfavorable and / or affect the performance, such as the water resistance properties, of the fabric material.[000136] In one aspect, the silicone composition of the present disclosure may include an amino modified silicone comprising primary, secondary, or tertiary amines. The yellowing or staining of a treated fabric material may be decreased as the degree of substitution is increased. For instance, garments or fabrics treated with amino modified silicone having tertiary amines may have less yellowing and / or less stains than a fabric material treated with amino modified silicone having primary amines.[000137] Generally, modification of the silicone polymer may enhance properties such as water resistance properties, durability, flexibility, softness, and strength of the treated fabric material. In one aspect, the silicone polymer of the present disclosure may be carboxyl-modified, co-modified, epoxy-modified, phenol-modified, or more generally any modified silicone polymer. In one aspect, a modified silicone polymer may be of a side-chain type, a single-end type, a dualend type, or a side-chain dual-end type. In this respect, the type of modified silicone polymer may be selectively chosen to enhance the properties of a fabric material treated by the durable water-resistant treatment of the present disclosure. For instance, when the modified silicone polymer is a side-chain type, the chemical formula of the modified silicone polymer is generally:[000138] Further for instance, when the modified silicone polymer is a single-end type, the chemical formula of the modified silicone polymer is generally:Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT[000139] Further for instance, when the modified silicone polymer is a dual-end type, the chemical formula of the modified silicone polymer is generally:[000140] Further for instance, when the modified silicone polymer is a side-chain dual-end type, the chemical formula of the modified silicone polymer is generally:<[000141] In some aspects, the silicone polymer may be a silicone modified acrylic emulsion. The hydroxyl value of the silicone modified acrylic emulsion may be selectively chosen to enhance the properties of the treated fabric material. For instance, the hydroxyl value of the silicone modified acrylic emulsion may be decreased to enhance the water resistance of the treated fabric material. In this respect, the residual number of hydroxyl groups of the durable water-resistant treatment may be decreased. A lower number of hydroxyl groups may increase the compatibility of a cross-linking agent with the silicone modified acrylic emulsion. For instance, the number of reactions of the NCO groups of blocked isocyanate with the silicone modified acrylic polymer may increase as the hydroxyl value of the silicone modified acrylic polymer is decreased. In this respect, the increased number of reactions of blocked isocyanate with the silicone modified acrylic polymer may enhance the durability and the water resistance properties of a fabric material treated with the durable water-resistant treatment of the present disclosure.[000142] In some aspects, the hydroxyl value of a silicone composition and / or any components thereof may be from about 5 mg KOH / g to about 400 mg KOH / g, such as about 5 mg KOH / g or greater, such as about 25 mg KOH / g or greater, such as about 50 mg KOH / g or greater, such as about 75 mg KOH / g or greater, such as about 100 mg KOH / g or greater, such as about 125 mg KOH / g or greater,Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTsuch as about 150 mg KOH / g or greater, such as about 175 mg KOH / g or greater, such as about 200 mg KOH / g or greater, such as about 225 mg KOH / g or greater, such as about 250 mg KOH / g or greater. Generally, the hydroxyl value of a silicone composition and / or any components thereof may be less than about 400 mg KOH / g, such as about 350 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 300 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 250 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 225 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 200 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 175 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 150 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 125 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 100 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 75 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 50 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 25 mg KOH / g or less, such as about 15 mg KOH / g or less.[000143] In some aspects, the concentration of a silicone composition in the durable water-resistant treatment can be from about 0.05% to about 100%, including all increments of 0.01 % therebetween. For instance, a silicone composition may be present in the durable water-resistant treatment in a concentration of about 0.05% or greater, such as about 0.1 % or greater, such as about 0.5% or greater, such as about 1 % or greater, such as about 2% or greater, such as about 5% or greater, such as about 10% or greater, such as about 15% or greater, such as about 20% or greater, such as about 25% or greater, such as about 30% or greater, such as about 35% or greater, such as about 40% or greater, such as about 50% or greater, such as about 60% or greater, such as about 70% or greater, such as about 80% or greater, such as about 90% or greater. Generally, the concentration of a silicone composition in the durable water-resistant treatment is about 100% or less, such as about 90% or less, such as about 80% or less, such as about 70% or less, such as about 60% or less, such as about 50% or less, such as about 40% or less, such as about 35% or less, such as about 30%, such as about 25% or less, such as about 20% or less, such as about 15% or less, such as about 10% or less, such as about 5% or less, such as about 2% or less, such as about 1 % or less, such as about 0.5% or less, such as about 0.2% or less. The aforementioned percentages may also be based on the weight of a silicone composition in the durable water-resistant treatment by weight of the durable water-resistant treatment. In this respect, a silicone composition may be present in the durable water-resistant treatment in an amount from aboutAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT0.05 wt.% to about 100 wt.%, including all increments of 0.01 wt.% therebetween, based on the weight of the durable water-resistant treatment.[000144] Generally, the durable water-resistant treatment and / or a coating made therefrom may be applied to and / or present on a fabric material layer in an amount of from about 0.001 g / m2to about 150 g / m2, including all increments of 0.001 g / m2therebetween, such as from about 0.01 g / m2to about 100 g / m2, such as from about 5 g / m2to about 75 g / m2, such as from about 10 g / m2to about 70 g / m2.[000145] In some aspects, the durable water-resistant treatment and / or a coating made therefrom may be applied to and / or present on a fabric material layer in an amount of about 0.001 g / m2or more, such as about 0.01 g / m2or more or more, such as about 0.1 g / m2or more or more, such as about 1 g / m2or more or more, such as about 5 g / m2or more or more, such as about 10 g / m2or more or more, such as about 15 g / m2or more or more, such as about 20 g / m2or more or more, such as about 25 g / m2or more or more, such as about 30 g / m2or more or more, such as about 50 g / m2or more or more. The durable water-resistant treatment and / or a coating made therefrom may be applied to and / or present on a fabric material layer in an amount of about 150 g / m2or less, such as about 100 g / m2or less, such as about 75 g / m2or less, such as about 50 g / m2or less, such as about 30 g / m2or less, such as about 25 g / m2or less, such as about 20 g / m2or less, such as about 15 g / m2or less, such as about 10 g / m2or less, such as about 5 g / m2or less, such as about 1 g / m2or less.[000146] In some aspects, the durable water-resistant treatment and / or a coating made therefrom may be biodegradable. In some aspects, the durable water-resistant treatment and / or one or more components thereof, including any components disclosed herein, may be biodegradable.[000147] In some aspects, the durable water-resistant treatment and / or a coating made therefrom may be bio-based. In some aspects, the durable water-resistant treatment and / or one or more components thereof, including any components disclosed herein, may be bio-based. As used herein, “bio-based” refers to a material (e.g., the durable water-resistant treatment and / or one or more components thereof) that is made from non-petroleum sources.[000148] Seam TapeAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT[000149] In general, a seam tape in accordance with the present disclosure may be incorporated into any suitable protective garment or apparel. In general, the seam tape of the present disclosure may include a specially adapted adhesive layer in conjunction with a covering layer, which can be a fabric layer. In one aspect, the seam tape can include a third layer positioned in between the covering layer and the adhesive layer. The third layer, for instance, can be a film, such as a microporous film. Notably, the seam tape may be applied to a fabric before or after garment construction.[000150] In general, in order to apply the seam tape of the present disclosure to a seam on a garment like the one illustrated in FIG. 1 , the seam tape may be placed along the seam and heat and pressure may be applied in an amount sufficient for the adhesive layer to be pressed into the fabric and cured. In one aspect, for instance, the seam tape may be applied to a seam using a hot head press set to a temperature of greater than about 370°F, such as greater than about 380°F, such as greater than about 390°F, such as greater than about 395°F, and generally less than about 500°F, such as less than about 475°F, such as less than about 440°F. Notably, the hot head press may be set to a pressure of from about 30 psi to about 80 psi, such as at a pressure of from about 50 psi to about 60 psi. Heat and pressure may be applied to the seam tape for a time of from about 5 seconds to about 3 minutes, such as for a time of from about 15 seconds to about 45 seconds. When the seam tape is being applied to a seam, a release paper may be placed on the opposite side of the seam to prevent adhesive flow through.[000151] Alternatively, the seam tape may be applied to the fabric or garment using a hot air machine followed by feeding the laminate through pressure rollers. The hot air machine may operate at air temperatures above 330°F, such as greater than 350°F and generally less than about 450°F.[000152] Referring to FIG. 4, FIG. 4 illustrates one aspect of a three-layer seam tape made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. In this aspect, the seam tape 10 includes a cover layer 12, an adhesive layer 14, and an optional film layer 16 positioned between the cover layer 12 and the adhesive layer 14.Notably, one or more seam tapes, such as the seam tape of FIG. 4, can be placed over one or more seams of a protective garment. For instance, a seam tape can be placed over each seam 30 and 32 of the protective garment 20 of FIG. 1 forAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTimproving the barrier properties of the protective garment 20 along the seams 30 and 32. FIG. 3 illustrates a first seam 30 having a seam tape 10 applied thereto.[000153] In accordance with the present disclosure, the adhesive layer 14 may be made from a thermoset polymer particularly well suited to producing a durable bond with the primary fabric layer that forms the protective garment. In one aspect, the adhesive layer 14 has a particular thickness well suited to forming a durable bond with the fabric that is adjacent to the seam of the protective garment.[000154] In one aspect, the adhesive layer 14 includes a polyester thermoset adhesive film. In this respect, the adhesive layer 14 may be continuous. Although a continuous film may be preferred, in alternative embodiments, the adhesive layer 14 may be discontinuous. When discontinuous, the film may cover greater than about 50% of the surface area of the adjacent layer, which is the film layer 16 in FIG. 4, such as greater than about 60% of the surface area, such as greater than about 70% of the surface area, such as greater than about 80% of the surface area.[000155] In one particular embodiment, the adhesive layer 14 may be made from an adhesive containing a polyester resin (e.g., a linear saturated copolyester resin). The polyester resin (e.g., copolyester resin) may be crosslinkable. In this manner, when the seam tape 10 is applied to a seam and heated under pressure, the elevated temperature causes the polymer in the adhesive layer 14 to crosslink and form a thermoset polymer. The thermoset polymer produces adhesive bonds with the opposing fabric and / or mechanical bonds.[000156] The curing temperature of the adhesive layer 14 can vary depending upon the particular application or desired result. For instance, the curing temperature may be greater than about 300°F, such as greater than about 350°F, such as greater than about 375°F, such as greater than about 400°F, and generally less than about 550°F.[000157] Notably, the polyester of the polyester resin may be a virgin polyester, a recycled polyester, or a combination thereof. A combination of a virgin polyester and a recycled polyester may be referred to as a partially recycled polyester.[000158] In some aspects, the polyester polymer is a copolyester, such as a copolyester block copolymer. In one aspect, the copolyester can contain a lowAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTpolarity block in the copolyester backbone as described in U.S. Patent No.6,774,183, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.[000159] Alternatively, the polyester resin can be a cycloaliphatic copolyester. The polyester, for instance, can include polybutylene adipate. Cycloaliphatic polyester resins that may be incorporated into the adhesive layer, for instance, are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,977,283, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.[000160] In one aspect, a copolyester can be selected having a relatively high glass transition temperature. For instance, the glass transition temperature of the copolyester can be greater than about 58°C, such as greater than about 62°C, such as greater than about 65°C, such as greater than about 70°C, such as greater than about 75°C, such as greater than about 80°C, and generally less than about 90°C, such as less than about 85°C. Copolyesters having high glass transition temperatures, for instance, are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No.2011 / 0268909, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.[000161] In one aspect, the adhesive layer 14 may contain a copolyester polymer in combination with a crosslinking agent. The crosslinking agent, for instance, can be any suitable curable component. For example, the crosslinking agent can include aminoplasts, phenoplasts, epoxy resins, polyisocyanates, silanes, aziridines, or mixtures thereof. In one aspect, the crosslinking agent can be an isocyanate.[000162] In one aspect, the adhesive layer 14 may be relatively thick in order to improve durability. The thickness of the adhesive layer can also promote intermingling between the adhesive and the fabric to which the adhesive bonds. For example, in one aspect, the adhesive layer 14 may have a thickness of greater than about 2.5 mils. For instance, the thickness of the adhesive layer may be from about 2.5 mils to about 6 mils, including all increments of 0.1 mils therebetween. In various embodiments, the adhesive layer 14 may be greater than about 3 mils, such as greater than about 3.2 mils, such as greater than about 3.4 mils, such as greater than about 3.6 mils, and generally less than about 5 mils, such as less than about 4.5 mils, such as less than about 4.1 mils. During installment of the seam tape along the seam of a protective garment, the seam tape is subjected to relatively high temperatures and pressures. By having a relatively thicker adhesiveAttorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTlayer, the adhesive layer is capable of impregnating the opposing fabric and filling the interstices of the fabric between and around the yarns. In this manner, a strong and durable bond is formed between the seam tape and the fabric.[000163] Generally, the adhesive that forms the adhesive layer may include one or more organic compounds (e.g., volatile organic compounds). In this respect, the adhesive may contain one or more organic compounds (e.g., volatile organic compounds, before curing. In some aspects, the adhesive may include one or more organic compounds such as acetone, diethyl malonate, ethyl acetate, propylene glycol, toluene, or a combination thereof. Notably, the melt viscosity of an adhesive layer and the cure time of an adhesive layer may decrease as the weight percentage of organic compounds, such as volatile organic compounds, in an adhesive is increased. In general, an adhesive may include one or more organic compounds (e.g., volatile organic compounds) in an amount of about 0.5 wt.% or more, such as about 1 wt.% or more, such as about 1.5 wt.% or more, such as about 2 wt.% or more, such as about 2.5 wt.% or more, such as about 3 wt.% or more, such as about 3.5 wt.% or more, such as about 4 wt.% or more, such as about 4.5 wt.% or more, such as about 5 wt.% or more. In some aspects, an adhesive may include one or more organic compounds (e.g., volatile organic compounds) in an amount of about 10 wt.% or less, such as about 8 wt.% or less, such as about 5 wt.% or less, such as about 4.5 wt.% or less, such as about 4 wt.% or less, such as about 3.5 wt.% or less, such as about 3 wt.% or less, such as about 2.5 wt.% or less, such as about 2 wt.% or less, such as about 1.5 wt.% or less, such as about 1 wt.% or less.[000164] As shown in FIG. 4, the seam tape 10 may also include a cover layer or fabric layer 12. The cover or fabric layer 12 can comprise any suitable material. For instance, the cover layer 12 can comprise a film layer, a nonwoven layer, a woven layer, or a knitted layer. In one aspect, the cover layer 12 is a fabric layer. For instance, the cover layer 12 can be made from the same fabric that is used to make the remainder of the protective garment.[000165] Notably, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have any of the properties or characteristics of a fabric material layer of the protective garment. In this respect, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have any composition, property, and / or characteristic of a fabric material layer disclosed herein.Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT[000166] For instance, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have a relatively high yarn density. In general, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have a yarn density of about 80 yarns per inch or more in the warp direction, such as about 100 yarns per inch or more, such as about 110 yarns per inch or more, such as about 120 yarns per inch or more, such as about 130 yarns per inch or more, such as about 140 yarns per inch or more, such as about 150 yarns per inch or more, such as about 160 yarns per inch or more, such as about 170 yarns per inch or more, such as about 180 yarns per inch or more, such as about 190 yarns per inch or more in the warp direction. In general, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have a yam density of about 220 yarns per inch or less in the warp direction, such as about 200 yarns per inch or less, such as about 190 yarns per inch or less, such as about 180 yarns per inch or less, such as about 170 yarns per inch or less, such as about 160 yarns per inch or less, such as about 150 yams per inch or less, such as about 140 yarns per inch or less, such as about 130 yarns per inch or less, such as about 120 yams per inch or less, such as about 110 yarns per inch or less in the warp direction.[000167] Generally, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have a yarn density of about 50 yarns per inch or more in the fill direction, such as about 60 yams per inch or more, such as about 70 yams per inch or more, such as about 80 yarns per inch or more, such as about 90 yarns per inch or more, such as about 100 yarns per inch or more, such as about 110 yarns per inch or more, such as about 120 yarns per inch or more in the fill direction. In general, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have a yarn density of about 130 yams per inch or less in the fill direction, such as about 120 yarns per inch or less, such as about 110 yarns per inch or less, such as about 100 yarns per inch or less, such as about 90 yarns per inch or less, such as about 80 yarns per inch or less, such as about 70 yarns per inch or less, such as about 60 yarns per inch or less in the fill direction.[000168] In some aspects, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have a basis weight from about 0.5 osy to about 5 osy, including all increments of 0.1 osy therebetween. Generally, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have a basis weight of about 0.5 osy or more, such as about 1 osy or more, such as about 1.5 osy or more, such as about 2 osy or more, such as about 2.5 osy or more, such as about 3 osy or more, such as about 3.5 osy or more, such as about 4 osy or more,Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTsuch as about 4.5 osy or more. In general, a cover or fabric layer of a seam tape may have a basis weight of about 5 osy or less, such as about 4.5 osy or less, such as about 4 osy or less, such as about 3.5 osy or less, such as about 3 osy or less, such as about 2.5 osy or less, such as about 2 osy or less, such as about 1.5 osy or less.[000169] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the seam tape 10 may optionally include a microporous film or membrane. The membrane, for instance, may be made from polyesters, polyamides, polyketones, polysulphones, polycarbonates, fluoropolymers, polyacrylates, co-polyether esters, co-polyether amides, polyurethanes, polyvinylchloride, polytetrafluoroethylene or polyolefins. For waterproof breathable applications, the film layer is preferably formed from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene is known to be very waterproof and highly breathable. The ePTFE may be provided with a coating of a hydrophilic polymer in known manner. Such laminates may preferably provide a water-vapor transmission rate of greater than 1500 g / m2 / day (particularly greater than 3000 g / m2 / day) and a water entry pressure of greater than 0.07 bar for a period of at least three minutes.[000170] Examples of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene films are described, for instance, in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,953,566 and 4,187,390 which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.[000171] In general, the film layer or the expanded polytetrafluoroethylene layer may have a thickness of greater than about 20 microns, such as greater than about 30 microns, and generally less than about 80 microns, such as less than about 65 microns, such as less than about 45 microns. The basis weight of the film layer may be, for instance, from about 5 gsm to about 25 gsm, such as from about 10 gsm to about 20 gsm.[000172] Notably, the seam tape may have a length sufficient to extend over a seam of the protective garment in a continuous manner. The width of the seam tape can vary depending upon the particular application and the type of fabric to which the seam tape is bonded. In one aspect, the seam tape is from about 0.75 inches to about 2.5 inches wide, including all increments of 0.1 inches therebetween. The seam tape, for instance, may be greater than about 0.8 inches, such as greater than about 0.9 inches, and generally less than about 2 inches,Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTsuch as less than about 1.75 inches, such as less than about 1.5 inches, such as less than about 1.4 inches.[000173] In some aspects, the seam tape 10 may include a release layer. Not shown in FIG. 4, the release layer may cover the adhesive layer prior to application to a seam on a protective garment. The release layer may comprise any suitable release material. For instance, in one embodiment, the release layer may be a silicone or silicone-coated substrate or film. In general, any suitable silicone release layer may be used.[000174] These and other modifications and variations to the present invention may be practiced by those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, which is more particularly set forth in the appended claims. In addition, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments may be interchanged both in whole or in part. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the foregoing description is by way of example only and is not intended to limit the invention so further described in such appended claims.

Claims

Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTWhat Is Claimed1. A protective garment comprising:a body portion having at least a front section, the body portion being connected to a first sleeve and to a second sleeve, each sleeve defining a hollow tubular portion, the first sleeve defining a first seam that extends along a length of the hollow tubular portion of the first sleeve and the second sleeve defining a second seam that extends along a length of the hollow tubular portion of the second sleeve; anda first seam tape covering the first seam and a second seam tape covering the second seam;wherein the protective garment comprises a first fabric material layer, a second fabric material layer, and an interstitial cavity, the interstitial cavity at least partially separating the first fabric material layer and the second fabric material layer.

2. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the body portion comprises the first fabric material layer, the second fabric material layer, and the interstitial cavity.

3. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first sleeve and the second sleeve comprise the first fabric material layer, the second fabric material layer, and the interstitial cavity.

4. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first fabric material layer and the second fabric material layer have intermittent contact with each other.

5. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the second fabric material layer has a liquid penetration resistance of about 600 mm H2O or more as determined in accordance with EN ISO 811.

6. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the second fabric material layer has a liquid penetration resistance of about 1000 mm H2O or more as determined in accordance with EN ISO 811.

7. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the second fabric material layer has a higher liquid penetration resistance than the first fabric material layer as determined in accordance with EN ISO 811.Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCT8. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first fabric material layer has a higher air porosity than the second fabric material layer as determined in accordance with ASTM Test D737.

9. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the second fabric material layer comprises polyester in an amount of about 50 wt.% or more.

10. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the second fabric material layer comprises polyester in an amount of about 70 wt.% or more.

11. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first fabric material layer, the second fabric material layer, or both comprise yarns, the yarns having a denier from about 10 to about 300.

12. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first fabric material layer, the second fabric material layer, or both comprise yarns, the first fabric material layer, the second fabric material layer, or both having a yarn density of about 80 yarns per inch or more in the warp direction and having a yarn density of about 50 yarns per inch or more in the fill direction.

13. The protective garment as defined in claim 12, wherein the first fabric material layer, the second fabric material layer, or both have a yarn density of about 220 yarns per inch or less in the warp direction and a yarn density of about 130 yarns per inch or less in the fill direction.

14. The protective garment as defined in claim 12, wherein the first fabric material layer, the second fabric material layer, or both have a basis weight from about 0.5 osy to about 5 osy.

15. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the second fabric material layer has been treated with a durable water-resistant treatment.

16. The protective garment as defined in claim 15, wherein the durable water-resistant treatment comprises a silicone composition.

17. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the seam tape comprises an adhesive layer, the adhesive layer comprising one or more volatile organic compounds in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%.

18. The protective garment as defined in claim 1 , wherein the second fabric material layer is the outermost layer of the body portion of the protective garment.

19. A protective garment comprising:Attorney Docket No.: ITGB-49-PCTa body portion having at least a front section, the body portion being connected to a first sleeve and to a second sleeve, each sleeve defining a hollow tubular portion, the first sleeve defining a first seam that extends along a length of the hollow tubular portion of the first sleeve and the second sleeve defining a second seam that extends along a length of the hollow tubular portion of the second sleeve; anda first seam tape covering the first seam and a second seam tape covering the second seam, each seam tape comprising a fabric layer, an adhesive layer, and optionally a film layer positioned between the fabric layer and the adhesive layer;wherein the protective garment comprises a first fabric material layer, a second fabric material layer, and an interstitial cavity, the interstitial cavity at least partially separating the first fabric material layer and the second fabric material layer.

20. The protective garment as defined in claim 19, wherein the adhesive layer comprises one or more volatile organic compounds in an amount of from about 0.5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%.

21. The protective garment as defined in claim 19, wherein the adhesive layer comprises a thermoset polymer having a cure temperature of greater than about 350°F.

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