Exploration of nano-finished non-wovens for potential use in protective clothing for agricultural workers in South Africa

Abstract

The global trade requirements have made protective clothing paramount in the agricultural sector. The aim of the study was to find the views of farmers on the use of protective garment for the agricultural sector in South Africa, and to measure the performance of nano-treated fabric structures, which can be utilized as an alternative disposable protective garment. A mini survey was done to gather current practices of farm workers and experiments were conducted on the application of different nano-finishes followed by performance testing of barrier and comfort properties of the selected fabric structures. Findings revealed that current garments of farm workers do not offer adequate protection and there was desire and need for an alternative protective garment. Furthermore, the viscose/flax non-woven fabric with the CNFP/NSAC finish had the highest values for water vapour transmission, oil and water repellency, and air permeability and was reported to be relatively more comfortable.