Updates

DuPont Personal Protection Announces Availability of Revolutionary Hazmat Dual-Protection Suit

DuPont(TM) Tychem(R) ThermoPro Provides Fire and Chemical Protection in One Lightweight Garment

RICHMOND, Va., Nov. 16, 2004 - DuPont, the science company that has led the way in safeguarding firefighters and hazmat teams for over 40 years, today announced the commercial availability of its latest innovation, DuPont(TM) Tychem(R) ThermoPro, a single-layer suit that provides protection from both flash fire and chemicals.

Tychem(R) ThermoPro was unveiled at the June 2004 IAFC HazMat Conference to directly showcase the apparel to those on the front lines of emergency response.  Responders viewed the other functional features of the garment, which include a lightweight fabrication, respirator fit hood and hooded coverall design.

"Tychem(R) ThermoPro is designed for use when responders feel the threat of chemical and flash fire," said Dr. James Zeigler, DuPont research associate.  "By choosing our dual-protection garment, first responders won't waste crucial time assessing the tradeoffs between chemical protection and thermal protection.  Tychem(R) ThermoPro will prepare them for both situations - even the threat of flash fire when responding to chemical spills." 

DuPont combined the science behind its thermal protection and chemical technologies to create Tychem(R) ThermoPro.  The company's patented Tychem(R) barrier technology has been integrated with its DuPont(TM) Nomex(R) fabric, which is inherently flame-resistant and helps flash fire escape.  The suit does not burn, melt or drip.  Tychem(R) ThermoPro has been submitted for National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) certification, the Standard on Flame Resistant Garments for Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Flash Fire and NFPA 1992 Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Ensembles and Clothing for Hazardous Materials Emergencies.

Other Tychem(R) ThermoPro attributes include:

  • Permanent thermal protection that will not wash out or wear away (intended for multiple wears until damaged or contaminated).
  • Resists permeation by a broad range of industrial chemicals and chemical warfare agents.

"Like the people who wear our garments, DuPont is always looking for ways to improve safety and protect lives," said Dr. Zeigler.  "We are dedicated to developing the materials that help provide protection under the most hazardous conditions." 

DuPont is a science company.  Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere.  Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.

Contact: Kelly Carson Phone: (804) 383-3885 Email: kelly.h.carson@usa.dupont.com