Kinetic transport of pesticide from contaminated fabric through a model skin.

Most protective clothing research for workers exposed to pesticides has focused on the primary dermal exposure that results from direct contact with the pesticide and on the penetration, versus repellency, of protective materials. The role of absorption and retention in the function of traditional clothing materials to limit pesticide exposure has received less attention. This project investigates the transfer of pesticides from contaminated work clothing in the dry state to human skin with the goal of furthering our understanding of the role of absorption and retention in the function of traditional clothing materials.