NL2023124B1

NL2023124B1 - Support for avalanche victims

Info

Publication number: NL2023124B1
Application number: NL2023124A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Diederik Oude Nijhuis Robert; Peerbolte Jelmer
Original assignee: Diederik Oude Nijhuis Robert; Peerbolte Jelmer
Priority date: 2019-05-13
Filing date: 2019-05-13
Publication date: 2020-12-01
Also published as: WO2020231256A1

Abstract

The invention provides an apparel (1) comprising a C02 capturing element (100) comprising C02 capturing material (101), wherein the apparel (1) comprises an apparel surface area (5), Wherein the C02 capturing element (100) is configured in permanent gaseous communication with the external of the apparel (1) Via the apparel surface area (5) Wherein the C02 capturing material comprises a metal-organic framework.

Description

P1600103NL00 Support for avalanche victims

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to an apparel comprising a CO; capturing element. The invention further relates to a container comprising compressed particulate CO: capturing material for an apparel and to a fibrous material comprising CO: capturing material for an apparel.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Support systems for avalanche victims are known in the art. US6412482 Bl, e.g., describes an avalanche survival pack assembly including 1) a main support chest pack assembly to be secured as by a waist support assembly and a shoulder harness assembly to a user thereof, 2) an oxygen supply assembly or means to provide oxygen through a nose/mouth mask assembly to be worn by an avalanche victim and placed in operation on initially observing being caught up within an avalanche condition; 3) an auxiliary power supply assembly to provide electrical battery power to an oxygen conserving assembly or means and a radio signal transmit beacon assembly or means; 4) the radio signal transmit beacon assembly to transmit a radio signal therefrom for aiding in locating the avalanche victim by avalanche rescuers; 5) a visual location indicator assembly having a lengthy, brightly colored ribbon-like material and having one end connected to the main support chest pack assembly and the other end to be trailed outwardly hoping to be exposed on a top surface of the avalanche snow pack; and 6) a control circuit assembly operable to automatically energize itself on closing an "on" switch to provide oxygen to the avalanche victim even though the victim may be in an unconscious condition. The main pack assembly is provided with a CO: absorbing foam material which is important in increasing the chances of an avalanche victim's survival. The oxygen supply assembly has been modified with an oxygen conserving assembly to provide a pulsating supply of oxygen to the avalanche victim which is sufficient to provide a life-sustaining oxygen condition for a period of at least one hour. The nose/mouth mask assembly is provided with a face mask member having discharge valve members to discharge carbon dioxide from the nose and mouth sections of the avalanche victim and having a teeth grip member to be grasped by teeth of the avalanche victim to securely hold in a usage position.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Avalanches cause injuries to more than 1500 people on an annual basis. About 150 of those victims do not live to tell the tale. As such, avalanches are the most prominent safety concern for freeriders (i.e. people skiing or snowboarding in backcountries on ungroomed, natural terrain where there is no set course). Of all recorded avalanche fatalities, 75 percent are a result of asphyxiation. Most lives can be saved by prolonging the breathing period that buried avalanche victims have from 15 minutes (after which acute asphyxiation occurs) to, e.g., approximately 60 minutes (the extraction average for organized rescue). Any technology that is used to achieve this should preferably focus on eliminating the chances of carbon dioxide build up around the victim’s conducting zone of the respiratory tract. Supplying fresh oxygen may not be required if it can be extracted directly from the snowpack.

The invention especially focuses on support/safety systems based on devices for skiers and snowboarders, which is the group most affected by avalanches. However, the devices proposed herein are not necessarily limited to this group.

An avalanche is a very violent event. In case a rider gets caught, his (or her) main concern is to fight for his life by avoiding collisions with obstacles and to prevent getting buried. Once caught in an avalanche, it will be very hard to perform controlled actions and the rider may need all the time to prevent physical trauma caused by environmental factors, such as rocks and trees. Therefore, support systems preferably should autonomously function.

They preferably do not have to be depending on the victim to perform the right actions.

Amongst others, the invention may make use of the concept to capture carbon dioxide by a carbon dioxide capturing material. Ambient air is a mixture of gases of which nitrogen (Nz) (78 vol%) and oxygen (02) (21 vol%) make up the greatest part. It also contains water vapor and traces of other gases such as argon (1 vol%) and carbon dioxide (CO:) (about

0.04 vol%).

Human beings require oxygen for cellular respiration. With each breath, some of the oxygen in the inhaled air (approximately 5 vol%) is consumed and carbon dioxide is expelled (respired) (approximately 4 vol%) along with some water vapor. In an open breathing space, the expired CO; dissipates into the surrounding air, keeping the percentage of CO; near the subject low. A buried avalanche victim, however, is breathing in an enclosed breathing space, which causes the levels of carbon dioxide in the air surrounding the victim to increase with every breath. Hence, amongst others, the invention herein proposes to use a carbon dioxide capturing material potentially to counteract this undesired increase in the carbon dioxide level.

Zeolites, activated coal, and other materials can be used to selectively adsorb or absorb carbon dioxide. This process is also referred to as ‘scrubbing’ and is used e.g. to treat exhaust gases from industrial plants.

Hence, it is an aspect of the invention to provide an alternative support system for (people performing) alpine activities (such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling), especially for (potential) avalanche victims, which preferably further at least partly obviates one or more of above-described drawbacks. The support system is especially comprised in (an) apparel to wear by a subject (a potential avalanche victim). Hence, the apparel may comprise a CO: capturing element.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a container enclosing (compressed) particulate CO: capturing material (“capturing material”). In yet a further aspect, the invention provides a fibrous material comprising CO: capturing material. The container and the fibrous material may especially provide at least part of the CO: capturing element of the apparel, such as described herein.

The support system and the elements for the support system at least partly obviate one or more drawbacks of prior art systems.

In embodiments, the support system (the apparel) comprises an essentially autonomous system that may capture CO: exhaled (expired) by a subject, especially an avalanche victim buried under the snow. The amount of CO: captured by the CO: capturing element may especially be related to (especially in equilibrium with) the CO: concentration around the subject (and being in gaseous contact with the capturing element). When the subject is, e.g., skiing, the CO: concentration is low (about 0.04 vol%) and hardly any CO: may be captured in the capturing element. Yet, when the subject is in a closed (confined) environment such as under the snow, the CO: concentration may rise (with time), and the amount of CO: that can and will be captured may rise as well. The capturing material and/or the capturing element may especially provide its capturing function when there is an excess amount of CO: (relative to the atmospheric conditions of air), such as when the CO: concentration is at least 1 vol% and especially at a concentration such that the amount of CO; (when not being captured) may result in asphyxiation. Because the apparel normally will be stored at ambient (atmospheric) CO: concentrations, the captured CO: amount in the capturing element (during wearing of the apparel under normal conditions) may be low. Therefore, the apparel especially may not require to be activated before skiing and/or deactivated after skiing to be and/or keep functioning.

Furthermore, the CO: capturing material may conveniently be configured in different kinds or parts of apparels that are e.g. used by skiers and snow boarders. In embodiments, the CO: capturing material may be contained by a container, especially a flexible/shapeable container, that can be arranged in the apparel.

In specific embodiments, a first container part may be configured at or in the apparel, especially such that the container part may be connected / linked with a second part to define a container. The second container part may be configured for connecting to the first part of the container. Together the first part and the second part container may define a space for holding the CO: capturing element. During use, the CO: capturing element may be arranged in said space. The container may especially have a container wall that is permeable to CO:. Once, the container is arranged, no further action may be required.

In further embodiments, the CO: capturing material may (already) be introduced during the production of the apparel and especially the CO; capturing element may inextricably be linked with the apparel. The CO: capturing material for the apparel may be highly tunable and may enable greater functionality with reduced capturing material mass and volume compared to traditional solid adsorbents.

Hence, in a (first) aspect, the invention provides an apparel comprising a CO: capturing element comprising CO: capturing material. The apparel further comprises an apparel surface area (especially a part of a total surface of the apparel, see further below).

Especially, the CO; capturing element is configured in (permanent) gaseous communication with the external of the apparel via the apparel surface area. The apparel especially relates to (a) sports apparel. The apparel surface area is especially gas (especially air) permeable. In further embodiments, at least part of the apparel, especially the apparel surface area, may be water-repelling.

Herein, the term “capturing” is used in relation to the “CO: capturing element” and “CO: capturing material”. The CO: is captured and/or caught by the element/material. The CO: may e.g. in embodiments be absorbed by the element and/or the material. The CO: may (also) be adsorbed at a surface of the material and/or element. The CO: may e.g. be physically captured and/or chemically captured. Hence, the term may relate to “adsorbing” and/or “absorbing. Therefore, the CO: capturing element may adsorb and/or absorb CO:. Analogously, the CO: capturing material may adsorb and/or absorb CO: and may e.g. be (named) an “adsorbent” and/or “absorbent”. Herein especially the terms “CO: capturing element” (or just “capturing element”) and “CO: capturing material” (or just “capturing material”) are used. The terms especially relate to at least temporarily catching/holding and/or binding the CO,. Herein, also the terms “CO: adsorbing element” and “CO: absorbing element” may be used to refer to the “CO; capturing element”. Furthermore, also the terms “(CO:) adsorbent material” and “(CO.) absorbent material” may be used to refer to the “CO capturing material”. The terms “adsorption” and “absorbing” and the like may be used 5 interchangeably herein.

The CO: capturing material may have material characteristics and performance parameters that may determine how effective it is in an avalanche environment. Examples of these parameters are, e.g., selectivity, capacity, affinity, and stability. The CO: capturing material preferably has a high selectivity for CO) relative to the other components of the gaseous atmosphere surrounding the capturing material. The capturing material may substantially only capture CO: and not, or in a lesser extent, for example, N2 or O:. The capturing (or adsorptive) selectivity for CO: from a gaseous atmosphere may be defined by a selectivity factor. The selectivity factor may be calculated from experimental single- component gas adsorption isotherms. The selectivity factor may be defined by the molar ratio of the adsorption quantities at the relevant partial pressure of the gasses. The relevant partial pressures for a victim being buried under the snow being surrounded by a gaseous atmosphere of about 5-10 vol.% CO: and about 78 vol% Nz may be 0.05-0.1 bar for CO: and 0.78 bar for Naz. The selectivity factor (S) is further normalized to the composition of the gas mixture and given by S = (qco2/qn2)/(pco2/pnz), wherein qco2 and qn2 represent the quantity captured (and/or adsorbed) CO; and N: respectively, and pcoz and pn: represent the respective partial pressures. In embodiments, the CO; capturing material is selected for having a selectivity factor of at least 30, especially of at least 50. Selectivity may be determined by analyzing the uptake of CO; at a relevant partial pressure The CO: capturing material furthermore may be selected for having a high CO: capturing capacity, especially a high gravimetric capacity and/or a high volumetric capacity, relative to the capacity of other capturing materials.

The term “gravimetric capacity” may especially relate to the quantity (mass) of CO: that can be captured per unit of mass of the capturing material (in wt%, i.e. weight CO: per weight capturing material). Hence, a high (gravimetric) capacity may result in a lower required mass (of the capturing material) (to catch the same amount of CO:). The term “volumetric capacity” relates to how dense the CO: can be stored within the material, i.e. the volume (recalculated to under standard pressure) of CO: that can be stored/caught per unit of volume of the capturing material. A high (volumetric) capacity may result in a smaller required volume of the capturing material (to catch the same amount of CO:). Such capacities may especially be determined at ambient temperature and ambient pressure. The capacities are especially related to the number of grams of CO; relative to the number of grams or the amount of ml of CO; capturing material (without CO; being bound yet).

The term “affinity” relates to the (chemical and/or physical) interaction between the capturing material and the CO: molecules. The bond that CO: forms with the capturing material is often reversible. The amount of CO: material bound to the capturing material may (further) depend on the concentration of CO: in gaseous connection with the capturing material.

Because an avalanche deposit is an environment filled with (solidified and liquid) water and because expired air of a victim normally also contains water vapor, the capturing material is especially selected for not being negatively affected by water. The term “stability” may therefore especially relate to stability to water (vapor). A stable material may thus substantially not degrade or be rendered ineffective in the presence of water. The term stability may further relate to “robust” and substantially not degenerating during (normal) use of the apparel. In embodiments, the apparel may e.g. be cleaned, such as laundered or especially dry cleaned without negatively affecting the capturing element.

The term “CO: capturing material” may in embodiments relate to a plurality of (different) CO: capturing materials. Furthermore, the term “CO; capturing element” may relate to more than one CO: capturing element and/or a plurality of sub CO: capturing elements (together making up the (total) CO: capturing element). The sub CO: capturing elements may e.g. be arranged at (/in) different parts of the apparel (or different apparel parts, see below). Moreover, the term “apparel surface area” may (also) relate to more than one (different) apparel surface areas and/or a plurality of apparel surface sub areas (especially making up the (total) apparel surface area). In embodiments, e.g., the apparel comprises a plurality of (different) apparel parts (such as a coat and/or garment, a helmet and a face mask) and each or at least more than one of the different apparel parts comprises a (sub) CO: capturing element, and especially each (sub) CO: capturing element comprises a respective apparel surface (sub) area. Yet, in embodiments (only) one of the different apparel parts comprises the CO: capturing element and one apparel surface area (optionally comprising more than one apparel surface sub area).

The CO: capturing material may comprise a porous substrate or solid being able to capture /bind CO:. The porous substrate or solid may e.g. comprise a large specific (internal) surface area per unit of volume (m?/m*) or per unit of mass (m?/kg). The substrate may especially comprise molecules or elements /binding sites having a high affinity for CO». The

CO: capturing material may e.g. comprise polyethyleneimine (see further below) having a high affinity for CO. Additionally or alternatively, the CO: capturing material may comprise a metal-organic framework. Especially these materials may fit for an avalanche environment and the desired system qualities.

Hence, the CO: capturing material may (further) especially comprise a metal-organic framework. Metal-organic frameworks (also known as “MOFs”) are porous solids. The MOFs may be a particulate material, especially 1n the form of a powder and/or agglomerates of particles (see further below). The structure of a MOF may especially comprise metal-based nodes that are bridged by organic linking groups. As such, they may form a one-, two-, or three-dimensional coordination network. The metal-based nodes may comprise single metal ions or clusters. The MOFs are often named by the metal-based nodes in combination with the organic linking group. Furthermore, to describe and organize the structures of MOFs, a system of nomenclature has been developed. Subunits of a MOF, called secondary building units (SBU), can be described by topologies common to several structures. Each topology, also called a net, is assigned a symbol, consisting of three lower-case letters in bold. MOF- 74, for example, has a msf net. HKUST-1 has a tbo (twisted boracite) net. Attached to the SBUs are bridging ligands. For MOFs, typical bridging ligands are di- and tricarboxylic acids. These ligands typically have rigid backbones. Examples are benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid (BDC or terephthalic acid), biphenyl-4,4’-dicarboxylic acid (BPDC), and the tricarboxylic acid benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylic acid (trimesic acid).

The networks of the MOFs may exhibit extremely large (specific) surface areas (per volume and/or mass) in which gas can be stored. Hence, the CO: capturing material, such as especially the metal-organic frame work, may be selected to have a specific surface area of at least 1000 m?/gram, especially at least 1500 m?/gram based on BET analysis. In embodiments, the specific (BET) surface area may be up to 2500 m?/gram.

MOFs may be finely tuned by using different metal ions, organic linkers, and adding for example amine groups, which may allow them to be specifically attuned to capturing CO» (in an avalanche environment). The CO: molecules that are expired by an avalanche victim can adhere to the MOF through adsorption.

The capturing material, especially the metal-organic framework, may especially be selected or configured to comprise a high selectivity towards CO, a relatively high volumetric and/or gravimetric capacity (at room temperature and/or especially at temperatures in the range of -20-0°C, especially in the range of -10-0°C).

The gravimetric capacity is especially (selected to be) at least 15 wt%, 1.e. the CO; capturing material (e.g. the MOF) may at least bind 15 grams CO; per 100 grams of capturing material.

Hence, in embodiments, CO: capturing material, especially the metal-organic framework, comprises a CO; capturing capacity at ambient pressure and ambient temperature of at least 15 gram CO: per 100 gram of CO: capturing material (e.g. per 100 gram of MOF). The gravimetric CO: capturing capacity (at ambient pressure and ambient temperature) may be at least about 15 wt% per 100 wt% of the CO: capturing material (i.e. without any CO: attached to it) (such as per 100 wt% of the metal-organic framework). The capturing material, especially the MOF, may further especially be selected and/or configured to substantally not adsorb CO: at the ambient partial pressure (concentration) of CO: (about 39 Pa or 0.039 mol%). The capturing material further may be selected to be suitable for mass production.

The CO: capturing material may e.g. be produced at a volume of at least 1 metric ton of the material annually.

The CO: capturing material may especially be non-toxic to the human, especially when contacting the human skin and/or when (partly) being inhaled by the human.

In further embodiments, the CO: capturing material is stable during a prolonged period of exposure to ambient air with 100% humidity.

The CO: capturing material, e.g., may not degenerate during a period of a least 1 week, such as at least 1 month, especially at least 1 year, of exposure to ambient air with 100% relative humidity.

Furthermore, during (and after) this period, the CO; capturing (volumetric and/or gravimetric) capacity is especially at least 70% of the initial CO: capturing capacity (i.e. before exposing it to the ambient air with 100% humidity). In embodiments, the metal-organic framework comprises a MOF-74, such as a nickel-based MOF-74 (Ni-MOF-74), or a cobalt-based MOF-74 (Co-MOF-74), or a magnesium-based MOF-74 (Mg-MOF-74). Metal-organic frameworks of the type MOF-74 are also referred to as CPO-27. The above given different metal-based MOFs-74, may respectively be indicated by CPO-27-Ni, CPO-27-Co, and CPO-27-Mg.

Furthermore, Ni-MOF-74 may also be referred to by Niz(dobdc), or Niz(2,5-dioxido- 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate). Co-MOF-74 and Mg-MOF-74 may respectively be referred to as Coz(dobdc) or Coa(2,5-dioxido-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate) and Mga(dobdc) or Mga(2,5- dioxido-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate). The MOF Ni-MOF-74 may especially be selected for its high CO; capturing capacity (of about 24 wt% at atmospheric pressure), in combination with its high water-stability.

Its CO: selectivity may be moderate.

Mg-MOF-74 may, e.g., be selected for its high CO: capturing capacity (> 27 wt.%) in combination with its high CO:

selectivity. Yet, that MOF may be less stable when being contacted with water. The apparel surface area may though be configured for preventing contacting with water.

Hence, in embodiments, the capturing material comprises a nickel comprising metal- organic framework-74 (Ni-MOF-74), and/or a cobalt comprising metal-organic framework- 74 (Co-MOF-74), and/or a magnesium comprising metal-organic framework-74 (Mg-MOF- 74). These MOF’s especially may have a high CO: capturing capacity (in the range of 24-28 wt.%) and may withstand high humidity. The MOFs may be non-toxic when contacted by the skin. Especially the magnesium-containing MOF may further be non-toxic when being ingested or inhaled.

The MOFs, especially Co-MOF-74, are suitable for mass production, have a high selectivity and capacity, and remains intact in an ambient environment with saturated humidity.

In further embodiments, the capturing material comprises an IRMOF-74, especially Mg-IRMOF74(1l), also referred to Mga(pc-dobpde) or Mga(3,3'-dioxidobiphenyl-4,4'- dicarboxylate) (especially comprising hexagonal pores). The Mg-IRMOF74(I) may especially be functionalized with N-(n-heptyl)ethylenediamine (#Hept-2). In embodiments, the capturing material comprises an #Hept-2-Mg2(pc-dobpdc) metal-organic framework. Like the other metal-organic framework described herein, this MOF is safe to contact and has a high CO: capturing capacity. This MOF further has the advantages that the material is also safe when being inhaled by a human being, has a high CO; selectivity, and is highly (water) stable.

Amines may improve the CO: capturing capacity. Hence, in embodiments, the MOF is functionalized with amines, such as with N-(n-heptyl)ethylenediamine or N,N ’-dimethylethylenediamine. In further embodiments, the capturing material comprises mmen-Cu-BTTri, i.e. NN -dimethylethylenediamine (mmen) functionalized Cu-BTTTi also referred to as Hz((CusCl)s(BTTri)s(mmen);2), wherein H:BTTr = 1,3,5-tri(1H-1,2,3-triazol- 4-yl)benzene, a water-stable triazolate-bridged metal-organic framework. The MOF may have a moderate CO; capturing capacity of about 17.5 wt.% at atmospheric pressure but is highly selective towards CO:. In further embodiments, the capturing material comprises the MOF CuBTTri In yet further embodiments, the capturing material, especially the metal-organic framework, comprises a HKUST-1 MOF, especially Cus(BTC), or Cus(1,3,5-benzene- tricarboxylate)2. The capturing material may e.g. comprise HKUST-1, (4 wt% H:0) or Cu3(BTC)2(H:0);s. Furthermore, the capturing material may comprise HKUST-1, (8 wt%

H20) or Cus(BTC)2(H20):. HKUST-1 may have the advantageous described for the different types of MOF-74. HKUST-1 may further have an even larger selectivity for COs. Furthermore, HKUST-1 may be extremely resistant to humidity. HKUST-1 may only loose about 5-10% capturing capacity in a wet/humid atmosphere.

Additionally or alternatively, the capturing material, especially the metal-organic framework, may comprise a zinc comprising metal-organic framework-74 (Zn-MOF-74), also known as CPO-27-Zn or Zny(dobdc) (wherein dobdc* = 2 5-dioxido-1,4- benzenedicarboxylate).

The term “metal-organic framework” and similar terms may in embodiments relate to a plurality of different metal-organic frameworks. Likewise, the capturing material may comprise a plurality of different capturing materials.

Hence, in embodiments, the capturing material comprises one or more of a nickel comprising metal-organic framework-74 (Ni-MOF-74), a cobalt comprising metal-organic framework-74 (Co-MOF-74), a magnesium comprising metal-organic framework-74 (Mg- MOF-74), an nHept-2-Mga(pc-dobpdc) metal-organic framework, a Hs;[(CusCla(BTTri)s- (mmen)i2] (or mmen-Cu-BTTri) metal-organic framework, and a Cu3(BTC): (HKUST-1) metal-organic framework.

Additionally or alternatively, the capturing material may comprise polyethyleneimine (PEI). Polyethyleneimine may have a very high CO: capturing capacity, which may be higher than the capturing capacity of a metallic-organic frameworks. Yet, MOFs may start adsorbing CO: especially at higher CO: concentrations (compared to PEI), and substantially not (yet) at an atmospheric CO: concentration.

Polyethyleneimine (also known as polyaziridine) is a polymer with a repeating unit composed of an amine group and an aliphatic C2Hs spacer. In embodiments, PEI may be linear or branched. Linear PEIs, which have secondary amino groups, are normally solid at room temperature (melting point of about 73-75°C). Branched PEIs may contain primary, secondary and tertiary amino groups, and are liquids at room temperature. In embodiments, polyethyleneimine is loaded on (in) a porous substrate (also indicated as a substrate ‘functionalized’ with PEI). Hence in embodiments, the CO: capturing material comprises PEIl-functionalized (porous) materials, especially a porous substrate comprising polyethyleneimine. The porous material may e.g. comprise mesoporous carbons, a (hexagonal mesostructured) silica, a porous resin, and/or a porous polymer matrix. The porous material especially comprises activated carbon. In embodiments, the CO; capturing material comprises PEI-functionalized porous material, especially PEI-functionalized activated carbon. PEI-

functionalized materials may especially keep its high CO: capacity in a humid environment. Hence, in further embodiments, the CO: capturing material (further) comprises a porous substrate comprising polyethyleneimine.

Therefore, in embodiments the capturing material may comprise one or more of a polyethyleneimine (PEI) and a MOF (as described herein).

The apparel surface area is especially configured for providing a gaseous connection between the capturing element and the external of the apparel. Hence, the apparel surface area is especially gas (air) permeable. Therefore, the apparel surface area especially comprises a gas permeable material providing the gaseous connection. The material (of the apparel surface area) may e.g. comprise pores or openings/through holes for providing the gaseous connection. The (apparel surface area) material may comprise a mesh. The material may in further embodiments, comprise a gas permeable (synthetic) fabric or web. The material (fabric or web) is especially water-repellent and may e.g. comprise a hydrophobic material or coating. The material may be a fabric with a membrane, a so-called laminate. The material may be a 2, 2.5 or 3-layer laminate. The membrane may comprise a fibrous, especially woven membrane. Yet, the membrane may in further embodiments, comprise a (synthetic) porous film. The (apparel surface area) material may e.g. comprise one or more of elastane (elasthan), nylon (6,6 or 4,6), polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene, such as UHMWPE (e.g. marketed as Dyneema), neoprene, polyester, polyamid (PA), microporous polyurethane (coating), (expanded) polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) film (coating).

Herein, the term “apparel surface” and similar terms especially refer to a layer (or multi-layer) of material. A part of the apparel surface close or closest to the capturing element may thus be gas permeable, to allow the capturing element being in gaseous contact with the external of the apparel. This part of the apparel surface may — during use of the apparel — be configured relatively close to the mouth and/or nose of the user. The capturing material may in embodiments be sandwiched between two layers of material, wherein at least one is gas permeable. Especially, the apparel surface area may refer to the gas permeable part of the apparel surface. Hence, in embodiments, at least one of the layers (sandwiching the capturing material) may comprise the apparel surface area.

The term “apparel surface area” may especially relate to (at least) a part of a total surface of the apparel. Especially, a part of the (total) surface of the apparel may provide the gaseous communication. The part may e.g. comprise at least 1 cm? (of the total surface of the apparel), especially at least 2 cm?, such as at least 10 cm? (especially related to the surface in a non-stretched condition if the apparel comprises a flexible material). In embodiments, the apparel surface area may comprise the total surface of the apparel. During use, the apparel surface area is preferably arranged close to (an external opening of) the respiratory system of the subject wearing the apparel, especially such that the respiratory system is in beneficial gaseous communication with the capturing element. The capturing element, especially the apparel surface area, is (during use) especially arranged within a 50 cm, especially within a 30 cm, such as within a 20 cm distance of the mouth and/or the nose of the subject wearing the apparel. Hence, the apparel may especially be configured such that the apparel surface area is arranged in gaseous communication along a shortest distance with (an external opening of) a respiratory system of the subject wearing the apparel, wherein the shortest distance is equal to or less than 30 cm, especially equal to or less than 20 cm. The shortest distance is especially measured along a gaseous communication path between the apparel surface area and (the open end of) the respiratory system of the subject. The apparel surface area may in embodiments be arranged within a distance of about 25 cm ofa head of the subject, such as within a distance of 15 cm of the head of the subject (including contacting the head of the subject). The apparel is further especially configured such that if the victim is buried under the snow by an avalanche, the apparel surface area is still arranged in beneficial gaseous communication with the respiratory system of the victim, such as wherein the shortest distance is still equal to or smaller than 30 cm, especially equal to or smaller than 20 cm. Because CO: may diffuse through the snow, the gaseous communication path between the apparel surface area and the respiratory system of the subject may include snow (pass the snow).

It is noted that if the subject is buried under the snow a confined space (further enclosed by snow) may be formed around the subject’s head. Such space may e.g. comprise a volume of at least 1 liter, especially at least 5 liter, such as at least 10 liter. The space may further increase in volume by exhaled air. The (confined) space is especially initially occupied by ambient air (in gaseous communication with (the open end of) the respiratory system of the subject). When being buried under the snow, the composition of the air in the space may change because CO: is expired by the subject and CO: may be caught by the capturing element. Moreover, the composition of the air in the space may further change, because oxygen and nitrogen may be supplemented by oxygen and nitrogen present in the snow and/or provided via diffusion through the snow. Furthermore, also at least part of the CO2 may diffuse away from the space to/through the snow. Hence, the apparel is especially also configured such that the apparel surface area is (still) in gaseous communication with the confined space around the victim buried under the snow.

The term “apparel”, herein, especially relates to sports apparel or sportswear, especially snow or ski apparel. Sportswear also comprises a variety of protective gear or equipment required for (contact) sports such as boxing, ice hockey and winter sports. Different types of protective equipment are needed depending on the type of sport and position. The types of gears may include head gear, such as a helmet, eye shields, a face shield, ear shields, and mouth protection, gum shields, shin pads, shoulder pads, joint supports, back protection, gloves and boots. The term “apparel” especially relates to clothing and/or equipment to wear (such as a gear, like mentioned above). The apparel may comprise different apparel parts. At least one of these parts may comprise the CO; capturing element. Yet, in embodiments two of the parts may comprise (part of) the CO: capturing element (or a sub CO: capturing element). In further embodiments, all apparel parts may comprise a respective sub CO: capturing element, especially together defining the CO: capturing element. Herein the term “apparel” may relate to a distinguished apparel part as well as a combination of these parts making up the apparel.

In embodiments, the apparel comprises a garment. The garment may especially comprising a collar. In embodiments, the collar may comprise at least part of the CO: capturing element and at least part of the apparel surface area). During use, the collar is especially arranged within about 20 cm distance from the respiratory system of the subject. The term “respiratory system” such as phrases like “in gaseous connection with the respiratory system” and “at a distance from the respiratory system” may especially relate to the extremes of the respiratory system, especially an external opening of the respiratory system, especially the mouth and/or the nose (of the subject).

Hence, in embodiments, the apparel comprises a garment comprising a collar, wherein the collar comprises (at least part of) the CO: capturing element (and/or is in gaseous connection with (at least part of) the CO: capturing element), wherein the collar (further) comprises (at least part of) the apparel surface area. The apparel surface area may e.g. be arranged at a base of the collar, and/or at faces of the collar and/or at the center of the collar.

The apparel surface area may at least partly surround the neck of the subject (when) wearing the apparel. In specific embodiments, the collar further comprises a water-repelling coating configured at at least part of the collar, especially at at least the apparel surface area (of the collar).

In a further embodiment, the apparel (further) comprises a helmet. In specific embodiments, the helmet comprises a helmet part comprising (at least part of) the CO; capturing element. The (sub) capturing element(s) may be arranged in the shell of the helmet, and/or in an ear piece or ear cover of the helmet, and/or in a chin strap of the helmet. The capturing element may in embodiments further be arranged in a mouth (protection) piece of the helmet. Hence, the helmet part may in embodiments comprise one or more of a shell, an ear piece or ear cover, a chin strap, and a mouth piece. The helmet 1s especially a full-face helmet, e.g. a (full face) ski helmet. The helmet may be a mountaineering helmet. The helmet part especially (further) comprises (at least part of) the apparel surface area. In further embodiments, the helmet further comprises a water-repelling coating configured at at least part of the helmet part, especially at at least the apparel surface area (of the helmet part). The helmet part may be a detachable helmet part. The term “helmet part” may relate to a plurality of different helmet parts.

The apparel may in further embodiments (also) comprise a face mask. The face mask is especially a ridged face mask, that e.g. may be clicked at the helmet, or may e.g. be part of the helmet. Yet, the face mask may in embodiments also be worn without a helmet. During use the face mask will be worn in the proximity of (or over) the mouth and/or nose of the subject and as such may (also) advantageously comprise (at least part of) the CO: capturing element. Hence, in further embodiments, the apparel (further) comprises a face mask, wherein the face mask comprises a mask part comprising (at least part of) the CO: capturing element, especially wherein the face mask, especially the mask part further comprises (at least part of) the apparel surface area. To prevent water ingress in the capturing element, the face mask may further comprise a water-repelling coating configured at at least part of the mask part, especially at at least the apparel surface area (of the mask part). In further embodiments, the mask part may be detachably arranged at the face mask. The term “mask part” may relate to a plurality of (different) mask parts. The apparel may in further embodiments (also) comprise a balaclava or a neck gaiter. Essentially, a balaclava comprises a neck gaiter (and a hood). During use, the neck gaiter may be worn in the proximity of (or over) the mouth and/or nose of the subject and as such may advantageously comprise (at least part of) the capturing element. Hence, in further embodiments, the apparel (further) comprises a neck gaiter (or balaclava), especially wherein the neck gaiter comprises a gaiter part comprising (at least part of) the CO: capturing element, The neck gaiter (or balaclava), especially the gaiter part, especially further comprises (at least part of) the apparel surface area. To prevent water ingress in the capturing element (of the neck gaiter), the neck gaiter (or balaclava) may further comprise a water-repelling coating configured at at least part of the gaiter part, especially at at least the apparel surface area (of the gaiter part). The term “gaiter part” may relate to a plurality of (different) gaiter parts.

Hence, in embodiments the apparel comprises a plurality of apparel parts, and especially at least one of the apparel parts comprises (at least a part of ) the CO: capturing material (or a sub CO: capturing material) and especially (at least part of) the apparel surface area (or an apparel surface sub area). In a specific embodiment the apparel comprises a garment, a helmet, a face mask, and a neck gaiter, wherein one or more of the garment, the helmet, the face mask, and the neck gaiter (together) comprise the CO: capturing element and the apparel surface area. In an embodiment, e.g., the neck gaiter and the helmet comprise the CO: capturing element (each comprising a sub CO: capturing element) and especially (also) the neck gaiter and the helmet (together) comprise the apparel surface area.

The CO; capturing element may especially be configured in the apparel between two external faces (or two layers of material, see also above). In embodiments, one of the external faces may be configured for facing the face of the subject (when the apparel is worn by the subject) (and especially the other external face is configured for facing away from the subject). In further embodiments, the apparel comprises a multi-layer structure with two external faces and an intermediate region in between, wherein (at least part of) the CO; capturing element occupies at least part of the intermediate region, and wherein one or more of the two external faces comprises (at least part of) the apparel surface area.

Synthesizing a metal-organic framework may result in a fine powder product. Also, PEI-functionalized materials may be provided as a powder or as particles. Including a capturing material as a powder in the apparel may be less advantageous for arranging the capturing element, especially the capturing material, at (a) specific location(s) in the apparel.

Therefore, in embodiments, the capturing material, such as the metal-organic framework, may have been shaped (before configuring in the capturing element). The CO: capturing material may e.g. be shaped in particulate capturing material, such as (compressed) pellets (comprising the CO: capturing material). Press forming the capturing material, especially a MOF, may give great form freedom for its container. It can be realized without the use of bind material.

Compressing a MOF by about 1.5 times its framework density may result in less than 5% loss of capacity. Yet, the particulate capturing material may in embodiments be bound together using a binder to provide the particulate CO: capturing material. Hence the CO: capturing material may comprise particulate CO: capturing material. The CO: capturing element may comprise (compressed) particulate CO: capturing material. Additionally or alternatively, the capturing material (the metal-organic framework) may be held together by a container enclosing the capturing material (as a fine powder, and/or as particles, and/or in the form of pellets). The container is especially a flexible/shapeable container. The container may comprise a soft cover. The container may e.g. comprise a bag, grid, or netting. The container may comprise a multilayer material, e.g. having the CO: capturing material sandwiched between (two) outer layers. At least a part of a wall of the container is gas permeable. The container may be made of, or comprise, a gas permeable fabric. In further embodiments, the container may comprise a hard-cover. Yet, the container may not to be bound to a specific kind of (container) material. Essentially the container should be gas permeable and should be configured to host the capturing material. In further embodiments, the container comprises a gas permeable container wall enclosing (at least part of) the (compressed and/or particulate) CO: capturing material. Especially the container wall comprises the container material. Preferably the used (container) material is lightweight. In further embodiments the container is water repellent and/or comprises a water repelled coating. In specific embodiments, the container (wall) comprises a polyethylene (PE) fabric, such as an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) fabric. The fabric may especially comprise a material described above in relation to the apparels surface area material. The material (of the fabric and/or the apparel surface area) may be selected to be water resistant /repellent, and/or lightweight, and especially gas permeable. A shape of the (flexible) container may further be configured for fitting in or at an apparel part. For instance, the container may be configured for attaching to a face mask, or for arranging in a pouch of the apparel (see below). In embodiments, the container defines a chin strap (to be attached to a helmet).

Hence, in embodiments, at least part of the CO: capturing material comprises compressed particulate CO: capturing material. In specific embodiments, the CO: capturing element comprises one or more containers enclosing (at least part of) the (compressed and/or particulate) CO: capturing material. In further embodiments, (at least part of) the CO: capturing element comprises a plurality of pellets comprising the (compressed) particulate CO: capturing material.

The pellets may in embodiments have a (mean) pellet volume selected in the range of 0.5-250 ml, especially 0.5-100 ml, such as 0.5-50 ml, even more especially 0.5-10 ml, such as 0.5-2.5 ml. Dividing a total mass of capturing material into smaller pellets may enhance the CO: capturing (speed). Furthermore, having more and smaller pellets may provide a further degree of freedom in working/arranging the capturing material in the apparel and/or shaping a container comprising the pellets such that it easily fits in the apparel.

Hence, in embodiments, one or more containers may comprise the pellets. Additionally or alternatively, the pellets may directly be configured (or integrated) in the apparel. Pellets may e.g. be arranged between the two external faces, and/or worked in a fabric of the apparel. Yet, the pellets may, e.g., also be worked in a lining of a helmet or a face mask. The apparel may further comprise a pouch. The pellets, even more especially a container comprising the pellets may be configured in the pouch. In embodiments, the pouch comprises one or more containers enclosing (at least part of) the (compressed) particulate CO; capturing material. Hence, in further embodiments the apparel comprises a pouch, wherein (at least part of) the pouch comprises a gas permeable pouch part, wherein the pouch comprises (at least part of) the CO; capturing element and especially wherein the gas permeable pouch part comprises (at least part of) the apparel surface area. The CO: capturing element may in such embodiment easily be removed and/or replaced by another CO: capturing element. The term “pouch” may in embodiments relate to a plurality of pouches.

Hence, the capturing material, especially the MOF, may e.g. be shape by compression, extrusion, or freeze casting. Additionally or alternatively, the CO: capturing element may be shaped by attaching the capturing material to a (polymeric) fiber. The capturing material is especially bound to the external of the fiber. Additionally or alternatively the capturing material (particles) are formed in the fiber, wherein the fiber comprises gas permeable material. The capturing material, especially the MOF, (powder) may be dissolved (or mixed) in a liquified polymer and be formed in a mesoporous structure, e.g. by means of freeze casting. In a further embodiment, the capturing material (the MOF), especially MOF nanoparticles may e.g. be attached to a statically or electrically charged fiber. This may e.g.

be provided by spinning (using electrospinning) polymer (nano) fibers. The (nanoparticles of the) MOF may (than) be electrosprayed on the fibers to create MOF-attached fibers. As such up to 60 wt.% of the final fiber may consist of metal-organic framework. Such fibers may be used to provide a fabric. The fibers may in embodiments be enclosed by the container or e.g. be arranged between the two external faces. In specific embodiments the fibers are further processed in a fabric, e.g. a lining of the apparel.

In yet further embodiments, the CO: capturing material (e.g. as a powder) is processed in an adhesive or membrane arranged at a further layer of a fabric. A membrane may comprise a fabric, a mesh or a film, especially comprising a synthetic (polymeric) material. The membrane may comprise a (polymeric) substrate at which the capturing material may be attached. The CO: capturing material may in further embodiments (thus) be attached to or provided at a (polymeric) substrate such as by heat pressing or by an adhesive, especially wherein the substrate is at least part of a fabric (of the apparel). The polymeric substrate may comprise a fibrous material. In embodiments the polymeric material may comprise a polymeric film, especially comprising pores (configured for being gas permeable). The CO: capturing may in further embodiments comprise a polymeric membrane. In yet further embodiments, the CO; capturing material may be attached (adsorbed into and/or adhered to) to a (fibrous) (filter) paper. Such paper may in embodiments be arranged (folded) in the container.

Hence, in embodiments, the CO: capturing element comprises a fibrous material, and especially the apparel comprises the fibrous material. In further embodiments, the CO: capturing element comprises a porous polymeric material, and especially the apparel comprises the porous polymeric material In embodiments, e.g., the apparel comprises a lining comprising the fibrous material. The lining may in further embodiments comprise the porous polymeric material and/or the (filter) paper comprising the CO: capturing material. Additionally or alternatively, the apparel comprises a fabric comprising the fibrous material and/or the membrane comprising the CO: capturing material. Herein the term fibrous material may relate to a fiber as well as a material (like a fabric or a laminate) comprising fibers.

Hence, in embodiments, (at least part of) the CO; capturing element is comprised in a replaceable configuration by the apparel. Additionally or alternatively, (at least part of) the CO: capturing element is inextricably linked with the apparel.

The CO: capturing material may especially be selected to capture a large amount of CO:, per unit of volume and/or per unit of mass. A part of CO: respired by an avalanche victim may diffuse in/through the snow. Preferably a substantial part of the remainder is captured in the CO: capturing element. An amount of 100-500 gram of the CO: capturing material may be adequate to adsorb the excess CO; respired during about 45-120 minutes by a buried avalanche victim. During this period, (normally) the victim may be found are rescued.

Hence, in embodiments, a total amount of the CO: capturing material in the apparel (and/or in the container) is selected from the range of 75-500 gram, such as 75-350 gram, especially from the range of 100-200 gram. The subject may wear multiple apparels or apparel parts of the invention. Hence, in embodiments, the total amount the CO: capturing material in the apparel (part) (and/or in the container) may be less than 75 gram, such as at least 40 gram, especially at least 50 gram and especially no more than 75 gram.

In an embodiment, the apparel may comprise 150 gram of a MOF-74, e.g. Co- MOF-74. Such MOF may especially occupy less than 100 cm). A projected survival probability of a buried avalanche victim wearing that apparel may potentially be increased by approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

The invention may further provide the container per se. Hence, in further aspect, the invention provides a container comprising CO: capturing material (as described herein). The container may especially be configured for providing at least part of the CO: capturing element of the apparel described herein. The container especially comprises compressed particulate CO: capturing material, especially comprising a metal-organic framework. The container further especially comprises a gas permeable container wall. The container (wall) is especially water repellent. In embodiments the container comprises a total amount of CO: capturing material selected from the range of 75-500 gram, such as 75-350 gram, especially 100-200 gram.

The invention further also provides the fibrous material per se. Hence, in yet a further aspect, the invention provides a fibrous material comprising CO: capturing material described herein, such as comprising the metal-organic framework. The fibrous material may especially be configured for providing at least part of the CO: capturing element of the apparel described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which: Figs1-6 depict some embodiments of the apparel of the invention, and Figs. 7A and 7B depicts some further aspects of the invention.

The schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS Figs. 1 and 2 schematically depict two embodiments of the apparel 1, (or apparel parts 8), especially a garment 10 comprising a collar 11. The collar 11 comprises the CO: capturing element 100 and the collar 11 further comprises the apparel surface area 5. In the depicted embodiment, the collar 11 further comprises a water-repelling coating 6 configured at the apparel surface area 5. Note that the apparel surface acre 5 may in embodiments comprise a total of the apparel surface (e.g. of the two external faces 2 of the apparel 1) as well as part of the total apparel surface. The apparel 1 comprises the CO: capturing element 100 comprising CO: capturing material 101. The CO: capturing element 100 is especially configured in gaseous communication with the external of the apparel 1 via the apparel surface area 5. In embodiments, the apparel surface area 5 is configured for at least partly facing a face of a subject 3 wearing the apparel 1, such as (at the inner side of the collar 11) in the depicted collar 11 of Fig. 1. The apparel surface area 5 is configured for providing the gaseous communication of the CO: capturing element 100 with the external of the apparel 1 and may e.g. be gas (especially air) permeable and especially (also) water-repelling. The apparel surface area 5 is arranged in gaseous communication along a shortest distance L with a respiratory system of the subject 3 wearing the apparel 1. In the figure the shortest distance L is indicated as the shortest distance between the apparel surface area 5 and the nose and/or mouth (i.e. the external openings of the respiratory system) of the subject 3. In the given embodiment, the shortest distance L is about 5 cm. In most embodiments the shortest distance L is equal to or less than 30 cm, especially equal to or less than 20 cm. The shortest distance L is measured over a gaseous communication path between the apparel surface area 5 and the external openings of the respiratory system and may go through snow and/or the apparel (when being gas permeable).

The garment 10 of Fig. 2 comprises a plurality of pouches 9 comprising the CO: capturing element 100. The pouch 9 comprises a gas permeable pouch part 91 comprising the apparel surface area 5. In the depicted embodiment the gas permeable pouch part 91 is configured at a side of the collar 11 facing away from the face of the subject 3. In other embodiments also the side facing the subject 3 may comprise the (gas) permeable pouch part

91. The CO: capturing material 101 is hosted in containers 110 that are arranged in the pouches 9. As such the CO: capturing element 100 is (at least partly) comprised in a replaceable configuration by the apparel 1. In contrast to that, in Fig. 1, the CO: capturing element 100 is inextricably linked with the apparel 1.

In Figs 3 and 4, two further (aspects of) embodiments of the apparel 1 (especially also being further apparel parts 8) are depicted, viz. a face masks 30 in Fig. 3 and a neck gaiter 40 (which may be an aspect of a balaclava or may also be referred to as balaclava) in Fig. 4. Both, the face mask 30 and the neck gaiter 40 comprise (at least part of) the CO: capturing element 100, especially in the mask parts 31 and the gaiter part 41. The mask part 31 and the gaiter part 41 further comprise (a part of) the apparel surface area 5. The embodiment of Fig.

4 further depicts an apparel 1 comprises a multi-layer structure with two external faces 2 and an intermediate region 4 in between. As 1s depicted in this figure, but also in other figures, the CO; capturing element 100 may occupy a part of the intermediate region, and the two external faces 2 comprise the apparel surface area 5.

In Fig. 5 a (full face) helmet 20 is depicted as one of the embodiments of the apparel 1 (especially again being a further apparel part 8). The helmet 20 comprises a helmet part 21 comprising the CO; capturing element 100 at the inside of the helmet 20. The helmet part 21 further comprises the apparel surface area 5. The helmet 20 may be worn as such and forming (part of) the apparel 1. Additionally or alternatively, the helmet part 21 may be defined by the lining 25 of the helmet 20 and/or the chin strap of a helmet 20 (not shown). The helmet 20 may also for instance be worn as an apparel part 8 together with e.g. the garment 10 of Fig. | as another apparel part 8, together forming the apparel 1. In such case the helmet 20 comprises (a part of) the capturing element 100 (or sub capturing element) and the garment 10 comprises (a further part) of the capturing element 100.

The CO: capturing material 101 of the invention (especially comprises a metal- organic framework (MOF)), e.g. may in embodiments comprise a CO: capturing capacity at ambient pressure and ambient temperature of at least 15 gram CO; per 100 gram capturing material. (15 wt%). A total amount of the CO: capturing material 101 in the apparel 1 (e.g. divided over a plurality of apparel part 8) may in embodiments be is selected from the range of 75-500 gram.

In embodiments, the capturing material 101 may e.g. comprise a nickel comprising metal-organic framework-74 (or Ni-MOF-74), a cobalt comprising metal-organic framework- 74 (or Co-MOF-74), a magnesium comprising metal-organic framework-74 (or Mg-MOF- 74), a zinc comprising metal-organic framework-74 (or Zn-MOF-74), an nHept-2-Mgz(pc- dobpdc) metal-organic framework, an mmen-Cu-BTTri metal-organic framework, a Cus(BTC): (or HKUST-1) metal-organic framework and/or a PEI-functionalized material.

In Fig. 6, a further embodiment of a neck gaiter 40 is depicted. In the embodiment, the CO: capturing element 100 comprises five sub CO: capturing elements. The sub capturing elements each comprise a container 110 comprising the CO: capturing material 101. In the specific embodiment first container parts 112 are configured at the apparel 1. The second container parts 113 are connected to the first container parts 112 and together holding the CO: capturing material 101. In the depicted embodiment, the second container parts 113 are gas permeable and comprise (define) the apparel surface area 5.

The capturing material 101 may be shaped by different techniques. In Fig. 7 several examples of the appearances of the capturing material 101 are depicted. The apparel may e.g. comprise a fibrous material 130 comprising the CO: capturing material 101 e.g. worked in a lining and/or a fabric. For instance, in the embodiment of Fig. 1 the CO: capturing element 100 may comprise the fibrous material 130. It is note that herein the term fibrous material 130 may relate to a fiber as well as to a material comprising fibers, such as a fabric as is indicated in Fig. 7B. The fibrous material 130 comprising CO: capturing material 101 is especially configured for providing at least part of the CO: capturing element 100 of the apparel 1 according to any one of the claims. The fibrous material 130 thus especially comprises the capturing material 101 as described herein. In further embodiments, at least part of the CO: capturing material 101 comprises compressed particulate CO: capturing material 105, especially pellets 120. A container 110 may be used to host the CO; capturing material 101. This may be in the form of e.g. a powder 106, particles, as well as in the form of compressed capturing material 105, such as pellets

120. In Figs 7, e.g. different containers 110 are depicted. In Fig. 7A, the container 110 comprises compressed particulate CO: capturing material 105 and/or powder 106 comprising the CO: capturing material 101. The container 110 may be configured for providing at least part of the CO: capturing element 100 of the apparel 1. The container comprises a gas permeable container wall 111. The container may e.g. be arranged in a pouch 9 as e.g. is depicted in Fig 2. In Fig. 7B, two other containers 110 are depicted. The top one 110 comprises folded paper 150 comprising the CO; capturing material 101. The container 110 at the bottom comprises a membrane 140 comprising the CO: capturing material 101. The membrane 140 may comprise a fabric, but also e.g. a polymeric film. Hence, the membrane 140 not necessarily is gas permeable. The gas permeability through the container 110 may in embodiments (such as the one depicted) be improved by sandwiching the membranes 140 between (gas permeable) meshes 145. In further embodiments, the container 110 comprises the fibrous material 130 comprising the CO: capturing material 101 as is schematically depicted by the arrow pointing from the fibrous material 130 to the container.

Hence, in embodiments of the apparel 1, the CO; capturing element 100 comprises one or more containers 110 enclosing the compressed particulate CO: capturing material 105. The CO: capturing element 100 may comprise a plurality of pellets 120 comprising the compressed particulate CO: capturing material 105. Yet, the particulate CO. absorbent material 101 not necessarily is compressed.

The apparel 1 of the invention may especially support victims of an avalanche. In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 4, e.g., the balaclava 40 is fitted with several carbon dioxide scrubbing elements which may be containers 110 or e.g. pellets 120 comprising the capturing material 101. The depicted objects contain a metal-organic-framework (MOF) that has a high selectivity towards carbon dioxide and a high adsorption capacity. On a regular descent, the user 3 exhales carbon dioxide in the open air, causing it to diffuse quickly in the surroundings and keeping the partial pressure of carbon dioxide low. When the user 3 becomes a buried avalanche victim, the carbon dioxide diffuses much worse, causing an increased partial pressure. MOFs adsorb more carbon dioxide when partial pressure increases, so it ‘automatically’ starts working as soon as the levels of carbon dioxide increase.

The CO: uptake of the proposed material may depend on the concentration of CO: in the atmosphere it is exposed to. It may only capture a limited amount at the natural occurring atmospheric concentration of CO, whereas it may capture a significantly larger amount when it is located around a buried avalanche victim.

Although under normal conditions, the capturing material 101 may not substantially loose its (CO: capturing) functionality in time. Under specific conditions it may be desirable to regenerate to capturing material 101. The metal-organic framework may e.g. be regenerated at a temperature of 150°C after it is saturated with CO. A regeneration cycle may however result in a loss of its initial CO: capturing capacity.

The term “plurality” refers to two or more. Furthermore, the terms “a plurality of” and “a number of” may be used interchangeably.

The terms “substantially” or “essentially” herein, and similar terms, will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The terms “substantially” or “essentially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective substantially or essentially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” or the term “essentially” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%. Moreover, the terms “about” and “approximately” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%. For numerical values it is to be understood that the terms “substantially”, “essentially”, “about”, and “approximately” may also relate to the range of 90% - 110%, such as 95%- 105%, especially 99%-101% of the values(s) it refers to.

The term “comprise” includes also embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of”.

The term “and/or” especially relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after “and/or”. For instance, a phrase “item 1 and/or item 2” and similar phrases may relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term "comprising" may in an embodiment refer to "consisting of" but may in another embodiment also refer to "containing at least the defined species and optionally one or more other species".

Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

The devices, apparatus, or systems may herein amongst others be described during operation. As will be clear to the person skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to methods of operation, or devices, apparatus, or systems in operation.

It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.

Use of the verb "to comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, “include”, “including”, “contain”, “containing” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.

The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim, or an apparatus claim, or a system claim, enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

The invention also provides a control system that may control the device, apparatus, or system, or that may execute the herein described method or process. Yet further, the invention also provides a computer program product, when running on a computer which is functionally coupled to or comprised by the device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such device, apparatus, or system.

The invention further applies to a device, apparatus, or system comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further pertains to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings.

Moreover, if a method or an embodiment of the method is described being executed in a device, apparatus, or system, it will be understood that the device, apparatus, or system is suitable for or configured for (executing) the method or the embodiment of the method respectively.

The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined in order to provide additional advantages. Further, the person skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and that also more than two embodiments can be combined. Furthermore, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.

Claims

Conclusions:

Body covering {1} comprising a CO ‚capture element {100} comprising CO capture material (101) wherein the body covering (hH) comprises no body covering surface area (5), the Cik capture element {100} 10 permanent gas communication with the external of the body covering {1} is configured via the body covering surface area (5), the COb scavenging material (101) comprising a metal-organic framework.

The body covering (1) according to claim 1, wherein the CO: 2 scavenger material (101) has one or more of a nickel-comprising metal-organic framework-74 (Ni-MOF-74), a cobalt-comprising metal-organic framework-74 (Co-MOF-7 {), a magnesium-comprising metal-organic framework-74 (Mg-MOI-74), an nHept-2-Mg> (pc-dobpdc) metal-organic framework, an Hs ( (CuCD: (BTTrs (mmen): :) (# 11en-Cu-BTTri) metal-organic framework, and a Cu3 (BTC): (HKU / S7-1) metal-organic framework.

The body covering (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body covering (1) comprises a garment {10} comprising a collar (11), the collar (11) containing the CO trapping element (100) and the Body covering surface area (5). includes.

The body covering (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body covering (1) comprises a helmet (20), the helmet (20) comprising a helmet part (21) comprising the CO 2 trapping element (100) and the body covering surface area. (5).

The body covering (1) according to claim 4, wherein the body covering (1) comprises a helmet (20), the helmet (20) comprising a face mask (30), the face mask (30) comprising a mask part (31) comprising the CO2 capture element (100) and the body covering surface area (5).

The body covering (1) according to any of the preceding claims 1-2, wherein the body covering (1) comprises a garment (10), a helmet (20), a face mask (30), and a neck covering (40), wherein one or more of the garment (10), helmet (20), face mask (30), and neck covering (40) includes the CO 2 capture element (100} and the body garment surface area (8).

The body covering (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body covering (1) comprises a multilayer structure with two outer surfaces (2) and an intermediate region {4} therebetween, wherein the CO 2 capture element (100) at least a portion of the intermediate region (4) mneemi, and wherein one or more of the two external faces (2} comprises the body lining surface region {5}.

The body covering (1} of any preceding claim, wherein the CO 2 capture element (100) comprises a fibrous material (130), and wherein the body covering (1) comprises the fibrous material (130).

The body covering (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the CO 2 capture material {101} comprises compressed particulate CO 2 capture material (105).

The body covering (1) according to claim 9, wherein the CQ: trap element {100} comprises one or more containers (110) comprising a gas permeable container wall (111) enclosing the compressed particulate CO2 capture material (105).

The body covering (1) according to any of claims 9-10, wherein the CO 2 capture element (100) comprises a plurality of pellets (120) comprising the compressed particulate CO 2 capture material (105).

The body covering (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the body covering (1) comprises a pocket (9), wherein at least a portion of the bag (9) comprises a gas permeable bag portion (91), the bag ( 9) comprises the C £ k trapping element {100} and wherein the gas permeable pocket portion (91) comprises the body-covering surface area (5).

The body covering (1) according to any of the preceding claims 1-12, wherein the CO 2 capture element (100) is comprised in a replaceable configuration by the body covering (1).

The body covering (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-12, wherein the CO 2 capture element (100} is inseparably connected to the body covering (1).

The body covering (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a total amount of the © 9: scavenger material (101) in the body covering (1) is selected from the range 75-500 grams.

A container (110) comprising a gas permeable container wall {111} which encloses compressed particulate COhr capture material (105) comprising a metal-organic framework, the container (110) being water-repellent, the container {110} a total amount of compressed CO 2 - capture material (105) selected from the range of 75-350 grams, and wherein the container {110} is configured to provide at least a portion of the CO 2 capture element (100) of body covering ( 1) according to one of the preceding claims.

A fibrous material (130) comprising CO 2 capture material (101) comprising a metal-organic framework, the fibrous material (130) being configured to provide at least a portion of the CO 2 capture element (100) of the body covering (1) according to any one of claims 1-15.