Whether and how protective clothing and utensils can be reused against droplet infections is currently part of public debate. A new study shows how reusable, water-repellent cleanroom coveralls could be used as medical protective clothing. The materials studied as part of a research collaboration showed very good liquid-repellent properties, as required to shield infectious droplets. The contact angle method, which was the focus of the study, proved to be valid and can potentially be used as an easily accessible method for testing medical protective clothing. In addition to the measuring equipment manufacturer Kruss, the study involved Dastex Reinraumzubehor (engl. Cleanroom accessories) GmbH & Co KG, and OHB System AG, who played a key role in initiating the study. The textiles under investigation are used for cleanroom clothing in satellite manufacturing, where they primarily protect the environment. For potential medical use, the fabrics were given a hydrophobic PTFE coating. This modification ideally prevents wetting by infectious droplets and their absorption so that they fall off or evaporate on the surface. The detection of such hydrophobic properties is a typical issue in contact angle measurement technology, in which Kruss specialises.
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