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Townsend, K. 
ORCID: 0000-0003-2212-2511, Dawson, T., Salter, E., Harrigan, K. and Šterman, S.,
2023.
Squaring the circle on PPE: a systemic approach to designing and repurposing gowns.
In: K. Niinimäki and K. Cura, eds.,
Proceedings. 5th PLATE Conference, Espoo, Finland, 31 May - 2 June, 2023.
Aalto University publication series ART + DESIGN + ARCHITECTURE
(3/2023).
Espoo, Finland: Aalto University, pp. 1083-1089.
ISBN 9789526413679
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1803733_a2785_Townsend.pdf - Published version Download (356kB) | Preview |
Abstract
The lack of a systemic approach to the provision and servicing of reusable personal protective equipment (PPE) currently limits possibilities for extended use. The paper documents the research and development of a reusable PPE isolation gown and its’ integration within a virtuous, circular system, which tackles the human and environmental issues caused by single-use products, through a holistic design for reuse approach. The dual aim of the research is to enhance the design of PPE gowns to improve user experience while decreasing medical plastic waste, in line with net zero targets. The collaborative design of a reusable PPE/surgical gown is the outcome of empirical research supported by a distributed manufacturing network, comprising partnerships between academia and local specialist textile, gown and laundry suppliers and a company focused on enabling fully circular textile systems. The co-design methodology has been implemented through engagement with the industry partners, by analyzing the PPE needs of the active healthcare user, and through wearer trials with NHS trusts in the UK. Following interactions with all stakeholders in the supply and value chain, we have devised a Circular PPE System that addresses the significant barriers relating to the longevity of reusable gowns. The model is based on developing net zero processes, such as fibre-to-fibre recycling, zero waste pattern cutting, design for reuse tactics, low environmental impact decontamination hubs, medical and creative repurposing strategies to extend the functional life of the garment and its materials.
| Item Type: | Chapter in book | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Description: | Paper presented at 5th Product Lifetimes and The Environment (PLATE) Conference, Espoo, Finland, 31 May - 2 June 2023. | ||||
| Creators: | Townsend, K., Dawson, T., Salter, E., Harrigan, K. and Šterman, S. | ||||
| Publisher: | Aalto University | ||||
| Place of Publication: | Espoo, Finland | ||||
| Date: | 2023 | ||||
| Number: | 3/2023 | ||||
| ISBN: | 9789526413679 | ||||
| Identifiers: |
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| Divisions: | Schools > Nottingham School of Art & Design | ||||
| Record created by: | Laura Ward | ||||
| Date Added: | 13 Sep 2023 08:08 | ||||
| Last Modified: | 07 Aug 2024 08:54 | ||||
| URI: | https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/49690 |
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