About the Book

The late twentieth century saw an unprecedented increase in emphasis on protection of the human form. Health and safety at work requires protective textiles for certain jobs and the threat of biological and chemical terrorist attacks is currently a topical issue. The range of hazards and the means of combating them continue to grow and become ever more complex. A consequence of this is the development and exploitation of new textile fibres, structures and clothing systems whose purpose is to provide improved protection, whilst maintaining comfort, efficiency and well being. ??

The first part of Textiles for protection covers materials and design issues. It starts with a chapter explaining legislative and regulative standards for protective textiles. Chapters then go on to comprehensively list the technical fibres and fabrics used, survey the manufacture of yarns and fabrics, explore the emerging field of intelligent textiles and outline the steps required in selecting materials for protective clothing. The factors affecting the design and use of protective clothing are also looked at, with a chapter weighing up fashion against function. Part two deals with general protection requirements and applications. The requirements are considered for protection against: chemicals; ultraviolet radiation; fire and extremes in temperature; microorganisms; electrostatic charges; and ballistic threats. A chapter is also devoted to respiratory protection. The last third of the book is given over to case studies with important chapters on protection for the military and military aviators, fire fighters, workers in the gas and oil industry, motorcyclists and protection against knives and other weapons. ??

Textiles for protection is the fruit of a diverse body of talents, drawing together scientific and technical expertise from around the world, to produce an important source of current knowledge on textile materials and clothing, and their use in the protection of humans in hostile environments. It will be invaluable for all those working in the safety and protective fabrics industry and all concerned in health and safety in a wide variety of industries. It will also be an important work for health and safety workers in the ministry of defence, police and fire service.