The Basics Of Tyvek Coveralls Explained

By Essie Osborn


Have you ever seen these distinctive, life-saving garments? If you've seen a one-piece, full-body garment, white, worn by a worker at a construction site, a laboratory, or even by a mechanic in a garage, you've probably seen Tyvek coveralls. They protect the wearer against basic hazards, especially aerosol materials, airborne particulate matter, and even some liquids.

One of the most distinctive things about this material is that it's made differently from most protective textiles. The barrier is spun right into the threads of the fabric, in a process known as spunbound bonding, or a "flashspun" process. This makes it more effective than alternative fabrics which are simply coated with a protective layer, which could be damaged or scratched in the field.

There are varying degrees of protection depending on the style of coverall you choose. Some, but not all, styles have elastic at the edges, holding it fast against the wearer's ankles and wrists. This offers maximum protection at the extremities, so that nothing can get inside the suit.

Dry particles like lead or asbestos are stopped by this fabric, which makes these affordable garments popular for construction, painting, and insulation installation jobs. It allows water vapor to permeate, which makes it breathable and comfortable, but still offers some protection against liquids. However, for jobs or projects where chemical splashes and other highly hazardous liquids will be present, more expensive and more elaborate safety gear is a smart choice.

Another way that Tyvek garments reduce harm for workers is by being affordable enough to be completely disposable after a single use. Handling a garment that's been exposed to hazardous materials can be dangerous, which makes laundering and cleaning a safety outfit its own headache. With these single use coveralls, though, you can simply throw the garment away, and not have to manage cleaning it safely.

These practical protective garments are the first wearable uses of the Tyvek material, but the distinctive look and drape of the material has inspired fashion trends as well. Shorts made out of this spunbond fabric have been sold direct to layman consumers by the youth-oriented retailer American Apparel, and avant-garde rock band Devo were often spotted onstage and in music videos wearing outfits made from this distinctly modern textile.

Why does it matter that this is such a high density material? Because the strength of the textile means it is difficult to accidentally rip or tear. While it can be deliberately cut with scissors or a blade, it is almost impossible to snag or damage without meaning to, so wearers can be assured of safety, and won't be surprised by a vent in their protective layer of outerwear.

When compared against many other synthetic materials, this one is distinctly environmentally friendly, because of the DuPont company's Tyvek recycling program. Whether it's a garment that's been worn (in a situation where there hasn't been exposure to hazardous materials), or it's simply a used object, like a USPS Priority Mail envelope, if the item is made of Tyvek, the same company that manufactures the item will accept it for recycling.




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