Smart personal protective equipment (PPE): current PPE needs, opportunities for nanotechnology and e-textiles

Abstract

Smart personal protective equipment (PPE) is the future of improved occupational health and safety, and nanotechnology facilitates the development of critical smart PPE components such as smart textiles, wearable/flexible electronics, and augmented reality among others. Smart PPE utilizes sensing and communication technology in a way that is non-intrusive to either improve workplace safety or enhance occupational capabilities. The development of such smart PPE requires a multidisciplinary approach. This paper investigates the current state of PPE technologies for firefighters, healthcare workers, police/military, and construction workers. The modern PPE needs are identified from both end user surveys as well as expert third-party studies. There are already some smart PPE solutions for the challenges identified. Recent advances in stretchable and textile-based electronics, enabled by nanotechnology, demonstrate almost all imaginable solutions to the unmet needs that PPE users and expert advisor groups have identified. However, integration into smart PPE requires attention to the unique harsh conditions of hazardous workplaces. This review aims to inspire researchers in the field of flexible and printed electronics to develop and improve future smart PPE.

WITHDRAWN: A review of the role of graphene-based nanomaterials in tackling challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic

“…During the pandemic, new technologies and innovations were demonstrated. Graphene technology has the potential to produce new creations of personal protection equipment and new medical solutions [122] . Graphene and its derivatives are utilized to create and evolve multifunctional materials to prevent and control coronavirus [107] .…”

Automated Adjustment of PPE Masks Using IoT Sensor Fusion

“…Multiple steps have been taken that have been proven beneficial. [ 5 ]. Various research supports that it is possible to use IoT-integrated PPE which has proven to fight most effectively against viruses with the extra benefit of inbuilt health monitoring [ 2 , 6 , 7 , 8 ].…”

“…Despite its many advantages and benefits, personal protective equipment (PPE) has some drawbacks. These concerns are minor when weighed against the benefits of PPE, which has no substitute as of now [ 5 , 9 ]. The following are the most prevalent issues with PPE.…”

“…Fogging of goggles, spectacles, or face shields 88%—air trapped between the glasses and the wearer’s face is hotter and more humid because the worker’s skin is hotter and perspiring, increasing the likelihood of fog [ 5 ].…”

“…Despite efforts by researchers to create a mask that not only reduces viral transmission but also addresses issues related to difficulty in breathing, air purification, and a more comfortable design, there remains a significant gap in regards to the mask’s consistent fit. This is a crucial issue for the mask’s primary function [ 5 , 26 ]. Sensors can be utilized to determine the lifespan of the mask by collecting environmental data using IoT sensors, however, this does not address the adjustment or tightening of the mask, which is a crucial factor in minimizing contamination [ 27 ].…”