Traditional single-use medical fabrics can be uncomfortable, especially when they are worn for an extended time, and can lack the necessary fluid barrier for protecting today's healthcare professionals. SuprelTM nonwoven is the first in a line of upcoming medical fabrics from DuPont that are both highly protective and silky-soft.

DuPont researchers created SuprelTM through a unique bi-component formulation using the company's proprietary Advanced Composite Technology.

Developing nearly 20 new patents for this technology, DuPont can blend the ideal properties of two different raw materials to create medical fabrics that meet specific needs. For example, SuprelTM is the only medical fabric available that is made of polyester for strength and polyethylene for silk-like softness. It has less surface friction than other medical fabric products, allowing for greater comfort and freedom of movement. It also transfers heat away from the body quickly, adding to comfort in the operating environment. SuprelTM is made from continuous filament fibers and is very low linting.

Using a market-focused approach as part of its research and development, DuPont researchers developed SuprelTM by working closely with operating room nurses who participated in comfort studies conducted at North Carolina State University. Feedback and input on protection and comfort from the healthcare professionals were used in developing the new medical fabric.

"SuprelTM is the first in a line of innovative products from DuPont that will raise the bar for standards of protection and comfort in medical fabrics,
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Contact: Anthony Farina
anthony.r.farina@usa.dupont
302-774-4114
DuPont
6-May-2003