Bebiana Rocha
Damel, Lemar, Oldtrading and CITEVE have developed a set of multifunctional protective clothing for agriculture in extreme environments. Waterproof, breathable and comfortable, the AGROTEXYS project was thought out to aid and protect prickly pear workers. After extensively tested, the suit has now reached the commercialization stage.
“The goal was to develop a multilayer clothing system, with an outer layer that offers protection against thorns and glochids, and an inner layer that worked as a second skin, providing thermal comfort, and great mobility”, explains Gilda Santos, from CITEVE (in the photo).
The research centre was in charge of developing the product’s concept, design and specifications for the different layers. Oldtrading, on the other hand, took care of developing the inner layer, which is comfortable and breathable, thanks to its localized ventilation, capable of managing humidity, temperature, and even of neutralizing odours.
Once the interior was defined, it was time to address the outer layer. Lemar was responsible for creating a fabric suitable for the product’s purposes: it needed to be breathable, but at the same time resistant, able to stop the penetration of spikes and glochids (very small, flexible, flowing, hook-shaped hairs). As for the resistance to water and dirt, it was achieved through a special coating.
The garment is fully reusable and is already being sold. Damel is responsible for making the jumpsuit, and has already begun receiving contacts from interested parties.