Protective Clothing Design - Grado Zero Espace Srl

DESIGN OF PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
Giada DAMMACCO; Elena TURCO; Martinia Ira GLOGAR
Although solving some problems related to the multilayer development and
washability of the garment, the dust production and desiccant effect of the aerogel
were still drawbacks during the manufacturing and handling of the final product.
After some integration experiences, a special method named Aerogel Design
System has been developed enabling a creation of a padding warranting softness,
flexibility and breathability, together with the Aerogel's thermal insulating
characteristics. This technology was applied for the development of the Quota Zero
jacket, designed for high altitude mountain-climbing. Quota Zero jacket is a
multilayer jacket designed for expedition use where the extremes of weather,
terrain and temperature demand the highest level of performance. It was selected
by ADI Design Index in 2008 as one of the best made in Italy product.
The GZE design team, lead by Giada Dammacco, decided to focus on keeping the
material as light as possible whilst maintaining very high thermal performance. In
this way the number of layers required is reduced in comparison to traditional
equipment, which is still too heavy. A new innovation is the integration of the glove
with the sleeve, thereby avoiding the problem of losing a glove due to strong winds
(Pro-Hand© system); a decentralized vertical zip dedicated to the implementation
of the security systems, in order to avoid the lifting up of the jacket during the climb;
a 3D extremely breathable fabric (reducing excessive sweating on the back); an
elasticized fabric able to guarantee an optimal mobility and a reinforced fabric
placed on the shower protecting from the abrasion of the backpack.
Figure 9: Quota Zero Jacket features scheme and positioning plan
The inclusion of materials that are light while being highly insulating through
advanced thermal properties has made it possible to fulfill this requirement. Using
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