Ammonia and ethylene oxide permeation through selected protective clothing

An automated permeation test system was developed to collect permeation data. Three test specimens were evaluated simultaneously versus a challenge gas. The study evaluated chemical protective clothing garment materials for use by emergency response personnel confronted by ammonia or ethylene oxide in the gas phase. A total of 13 encapsulating suit materials and 2 glove materials were tested. Surgical latex material is not recommended for use in handling ammonia or ethylene oxide; other materials offer much greater protection.