Philippine E-Journals

Production and Marketing of Ergonomically Designed Compression Socks made from Recycled Pet Bottles Infused with Copper

Grant Kemp J. Sibug | Noel Fernando E. Lawas | Daniel Lupert A. Quinia

 

Abstract:

Plastic bottles are one of the most common industrial wastes that can extremely harm the environment. Because they are made of non-useful materials, most plastic bottles are easily dumped into landfills. PET bottles, though non-useful materials, are characterized as strong plastic that can last for hundreds of years. They contain harmful chemicals that can damage the environment if not properly disposed. To reduce solid wastes, specifically PET bottles, the researchers came up with a product that can utilize the industrial waste of the host company. Hence, plastic bottles can be turned into polyester, which is a type of fabric or textile. It can be used as the main raw material in the fabrication of compression socks by adding spandex and a special component, which is the copper dust. The researchers designed compression socks with copper dust called Eco-Socks, which can be helpful to workers who remain standing for a long period of time. It can provide comfort to the feet with its cushion and arch bands. The copper dust can give an anti-microbial and anti- fungal property to lessen the feet’s odor.