FUNCTIONAL FOOTWEAR UNIT

Abstract

The invention relates to a functional footwear unit, in particular in the form of knit-of-parts, which has preferably a particularly modular protective function against chemical and/or biological toxic and/or harmful substances, especially warfare agents. The invention also relates to the uses thereof.

Claims

1. A functional footwear unit (1), in particular in the form of a kit (kit of parts), preferably with an in particular modular protective function against radioactive toxic and/or harmful substances and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein the footwear unit (1) comprises, as functionally coherent and/or functionally mutually associated, but disconnected and/or separate, in particular spatially separate components, (A) an article of footwear (2), in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, on the one hand and (B) an inner shoe material (foot covering material) (3) comprising at least one adsorptive material (14), in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, preferably for prolonging and/or increasing the protective function of the article of footwear (2), on the other.

2. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein the footwear unit (1) is equipped with a protective function against radioactive toxic and/or harmful substances and/or against biological toxic and/or harmful substances and/or against chemical toxic and/or harmful substances, and/or wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular during wear and/or use, is not permanently connected to the article of footwear (2) and/or wherein the inner shoe material (3) is not a permanent component of the article of footwear (2), and/or wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular during wear and/or use, lies against the article of footwear (2) in a loose and/or unconnected manner and/or wherein the article of footwear (2), in particular during wear and/or use, lies against the inner shoe material (3) in a loose and/or unconnected manner.

3. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the inner shoe material (3) is provided for arrangement, in particular during wear and/or use, on the inside of the article of footwear (2) and/or wherein the inner shoe material (3) is provided for arrangement during wear between the article of footwear (2) and the area of the foot to be protected and/or is provided for arrangement on the side of the article of footwear facing the foot area to be protected during wear (2).

4. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2) is provided for arrangement, in particular during wear and/or use, on the outer side of the inner shoe material (3) and/or wherein the article of footwear (2) is provided for arrangement on the side of the inner shoe material facing away from the foot area to be protected during wear (3).

5. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2) has a multilayer, in particular laminate-type structure (2a) and/or wherein the article of footwear (2) is configured in multiple layers, in particular in the form of a laminate (2a), and/or wherein the article of footwear (2) comprises or is composed of a multilayer material (2a).

6. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 6, wherein the individual layers (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) of the multilayer structure (2a) and/or the laminate (2a) and/or the multilayer material (2a) in particular are connected to one another in sections and/or in particular over their entire area and/or wherein the individual layers (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) of the multilayer structure (2a) and/or the laminate (2a) and/or the multilayer material (2a) form a composite.

7. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2), in particular the multilayer structure (2a) and/or the laminate (2a) and/or the multilayer material (2a), is configured to be water-impermeable and/or air-impermeable, but water vapor-permeable and/or wherein the article of footwear (2), in particular the multilayer structure (2a) and/or the laminate (2a) and/or the multilayer material (2a), is configured to be breathable and/or wherein the article of footwear (2), in particular the multilayer structure (2a) and/or the laminate (2a) and/or the multilayer material (2a), is configured to be extensible and/or elastic (in particular reversibly extensible) and/or stretchable in at least one direction to at least 5%, preferably to at least 10%, based on the length and/or width of the article of footwear (2), in particular of the multilayer structure (2a) and/or laminate (2a) and/or multilayer material (2a) in an unstretched state.

8. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2), in particular the multilayer structure (2a) and/or the laminate (2a) and/or the multilayer material (2a), comprises at least one outer and/or covering layer (5), in particular wherein the covering layer (5), in particular during wear and/or use, is provided on the outer side of the article of footwear (2) and/or in particular wherein the covering layer (5) is provided on the side of the article of footwear facing away from the foot area to be protected during wear (2).

9. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 8, wherein the outer and/or covering layer (5) is provided as a continuous, in particular break and/or perforation-free and/or closed layer.

10. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claim 8 or 9, wherein the outer and/or covering layer (5) comprises or is composed of leather or a plastic, preferably leather.

11. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 8 through 10, wherein the outer and/or covering layer (5) comprises or is composed of a material selected from the group of leather; rubbers, in particular chloroprene rubbers, preferably neoprenes, and fluororubbers; rubber, in particular silicone rubber, fluorine rubber, butyl rubber, urethane rubber, and preferably butyl rubber; plastics, in particular aramids, polyamides and halogenated plastics; and mixtures and/or combinations thereof and/or wherein the outer and/or covering layer (5) comprises or is composed of leather.

12. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 8 through 11, wherein the outer and/or covering layer (5) is configured as a two-dimensional textile sheet material, in particular in the form of a woven fabric, and/or wherein the outer and/or covering layer (5) contains or is composed of at least one in particular flame-retardant fiber material, preferably selected from the group of aramid fibers; polyamide fibers, in particular nylon; fibers with a high halogen content; polyalkylene fibers, in particular polyethylene fibers, preferably fibers of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE); and mixtures and/or combinations thereof and/or wherein the outer and/or covering layer (5) has a weight per unit area in the range of 50 g/m.sup.2 to 2,000 g/m.sup.2, in particular 100 g/m.sup.2 to 1,500 g/m.sup.2, preferably 150 g/m.sup.2 to 1,000 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 200 g/m.sup.2 to 750 g/m.sup.2.

13. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2), in particular the multilayer structure (2a) and/or the laminate (2a) and/or the multilayer material (2a), comprises at least one inner layer (6), in particular wherein the inner layer (6), in particular during wear and/or use, is provided on the inside of the article of footwear (2) and/or in particular wherein the inner layer (6) is provided on the side of the article of footwear facing the foot area to be protected during wear (2).

14. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 13, wherein the inner layer (6) is configured as a two-dimensional textile sheet material, in particular in the form of a woven fabric, knit fabric, crocheted fabric, laid fabric, composite nonwoven fabric and/or nonwoven fabric, and in particular in the form of a woven fabric, knit fabric and/or nonwoven fabric, in particular wherein the inner layer (6) has a weight per unit area in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 500 g/m.sup.2, in particular 25 g/m.sup.2 to 400 g/m.sup.2, preferably 50 g/m.sup.2 to 300 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 75 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2 and/or in particular wherein the inner layer (6) comprises or is composed of at least one fiber material selected from the group of natural substances and synthetic substances, in particular silk, cotton, wool, linen, elastane, modacrylic, aramid, in particular meta-aramid, and mixtures and/or combinations thereof.

15. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2), in particular the multilayer structure (2a) and/or the laminate (2a) and/or the multilayer material (2a), comprises at least one membrane (7), in particular wherein the membrane (7) is arranged between the outer and/or covering layer (5) and the inner layer (6), in particular wherein the membrane (7) is configured to be water-impermeable and/or air-impermeable and/or wherein the membrane (7) is configured to be breathable, in particular water vapor-permeable, and/or wherein the membrane (7) is at least essentially impermeable to chemical and/or biological and/or nuclear toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (7) is a continuous, in particular closed or possibly microporous membrane (7) and/or wherein the thickness of the membrane (7) is in the range of 1 m to 500 m, in particular 1 m to 250 m, preferably 1 m to 100 m, preferably 1.5 m to 50 m, particularly preferably 2.5 m to 30 m, and most particularly preferably 5 m to 25 m, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (7) has a swellability and/or a water absorption capacity of at most 35%, in particular at most 25%, based on the net weight of the membrane (7) and/or wherein the membrane (7) has no or essentially no strongly hydrophilic groups, in particular no hydroxyl groups and/or wherein the membrane (7) has weakly hydrophilic groups, in particular polyether groups, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (7) is configured to be extensible and/or stretchable in at least one direction, in particular in the longitudinal and/or width direction, to at least 10%, in particular to at least 20%, and preferably to at least 30%, based on the length and/or width of the membrane (7) in the unstretched and/or non-stretched state, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (7) comprises or is composed of a plastic and/or a polymer, in particular wherein the plastic and/or the polymer is selected from the group of polyurethanes, polyether amides, polyester amides, polyether esters, polytetrafluoroethylenes and/or cellulose-based polymers and derivatives of the above-mentioned compounds, preferably polyether esters and polytetrafluoroethylenes, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (7) is applied to, in particular laminated and/or lined onto a membrane carrier layer, in particular wherein the membrane carrier layer in particular is an air-permeable two-dimensional textile sheet material, in particular selected from the group of woven fabrics, knit fabrics, crocheted fabrics, laid fabrics, textile composites and non-woven fabrics, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (7) has a water vapor permeability at 25 C. and a thickness of 50 m of at least 12.5 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h, in particular at least 17.5 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h, and preferably at least 20 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h or even more, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (7) has a water vapor transmission resistance R.sub.et under stationary conditions, measured as claimed in DIN 31 093:1993 of February 1994 or as claimed in international standard ISO 11 092 and at 35 C., of at most 25 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, in particular at most 20 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, and preferably at most 13 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, with a thickness of 50 m.

16. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2) comprises a spacing layer (8), in particular wherein the spacing layer (8) is arranged between the inner layer (6) and the outer and/or covering layer (5) or between the inner layer (6) and the membrane (7) and/or in particular wherein the spacing layer (8) is configured in the form of a web (nonwoven), a foam layer or a textile sheet material, in particular a woven fabric or knit fabric, preferably a knit fabric, and/or in particular wherein the spacing layer (8) has a weight per unit area in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2, in particular 10 g/m.sup.2 to 125 g/m.sup.2, preferably 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 20 g/m.sup.2 to 75 g/m.sup.2.

17. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2) comprises oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or an oleophobic and/or hydrophobic layer (9a), in particular wherein the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer (9a) is provided on and/or applied to the side of the article of footwear (2) facing towards the toxic and/or harmful substances during wear and/or in particular wherein the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer (9a) is provided on and/or applied to the side of the article of footwear (2) facing away from the foot area to be protected during wear, and/or in particular wherein the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer (9a) is provided on and/or applied to the outer and/or covering layer (5) of the article of footwear (2), in particular the side of the outer covering layer (5) facing towards the toxic and/or harmful substances during wear and/or in particular the side of the outer and/or covering layer (5) facing away from the area of the foot to be protected against the toxic and/or harmful substances during wear.

18. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 17, wherein the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer (9a) is/are in the form of an impregnation and/or coating, in particular by means of at least one fluorocarbon and/or at least one fluorohydrocarbon, in particular a fluorinated polymer.

19. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 17, wherein the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer (9a) is/are implemented and/or applied by means of plasma treatment, in particular wherein the plasma treatment is carried out directly on the surface of the article of footwear (2), in particular on the surface of the outer and/or covering layer (5) of the article of footwear (2), and/or in particular wherein the plasma treatment is carried out indirectly on the surface of the article of footwear (2), in particular on the surface of the outer and/or covering layer (5) of the article of footwear (2), in particular after application of a preferably polymeric or polymerizable film to the surface to be treated, wherein the polymeric or polymerizable film is crosslinked and/or cured by means of the plasma treatment, and in particular wherein silicones, in particular silicone oils, or organopolysiloxanes are used as a polymeric or polymerizable film.

20. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2) comprises fire and/or flame-retardant equipment and/or an oleophobic and/or hydrophobic layer (9b), in particular wherein the fire and/or flame-retardant equipment and/or layer (9b) is in the form of an impregnation and/or coating, and/or in particular wherein the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer (9b) is provided on and/or applied to the side of the article of footwear (2) facing towards the toxic and/or harmful substances during wear and/or in particular wherein the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer (9b) is provided on and/or applied to the side of the article of footwear (2) facing away from the toxic and/or harmful substances during wear, and/or in particular wherein the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer (9b) is provided on and/or applied to the outer and/or covering layer (5) of the article of footwear (2), in particular on the side of the outer and/or covering layer (5) facing towards the toxic and/or harmful substances during wear and/or in particular the side of the outer and/or covering layer (5) facing away from the area of the foot to be protected against the toxic and/or harmful substances during wear.

21. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 20, wherein the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer (9b) is configured based on (i) phosphoric acid compounds, in particular phosphoric acid esters; (ii) metal salts, in particular antimony or aluminum salts; (iii) fluorinated polymers; and mixtures of two or more of the above-mentioned compounds.

22. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2), in particular the multilayer structure (2a) and/or the laminate (2a) and/or the multilayer material (2a), contains no adsorptive material, in particular no activated carbon, and/or is free of adsorptive materials, in particular free of activated carbon, and/or at least shows essentially no adsorptive properties.

23. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2) comprises a preferably flame-retardant sole (23), in particular wherein the sole (23) is at least essentially water and/or air-impermeable and/or in particular wherein the sole (23) is composed of a plastic and/or rubber material.

24. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2) is configured in multiple pieces and/or multiple parts, in particular wherein the individual (surface) sections of the article of footwear (2) are connected to one another by means of sewing, gluing, and/or welding and/or in particular wherein the individual (surface) sections of the article of footwear (2) are connected to one another via connecting areas, in particular seams, and/or wherein the article of footwear (2) is configured as a combat boot, firefighting boot, work boot, protective boot, lace-up boot or the like.

25. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner shoe material (3) has a multilayer, in particular laminate-type structure (3a) and/or wherein the inner shoe material (3) is configured in multiple layers, in particular in the form of a laminate (3a), and/or wherein the inner shoe material (3) comprises or is composed of a multilayer material (3a).

26. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 25, wherein the individual layers (10, 11, 12, 16, 17) of the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a) in particular are connected to one another in sections and/or in particular over their entire area and/or wherein the individual layers (10, 11, 12, 16, 17) of the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a) form a composite.

27. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 1 through 26, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), is configured to be air-permeable and/or water and/or water vapor-permeable and/or wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), has an air permeability measured as claimed in DIN 53887 and/or measured at a flow resistance of 127 Pa of at least 200 l/m.sup.2 per second, preferably at least 300 l/m.sup.2 per second, preferably at least 400 l/m.sup.2 per second, particularly preferably at least 600 l/m.sup.2 per second, and most particularly preferably at least 800 l/m.sup.2 per second.

28. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 1 through 26, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), is configured to be water-impermeable and/or air-impermeable but water vapor-permeable and/or wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), is configured to be breathable.

29. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), is configured to be extensible and/or elastic (in particular reversibly extensible) and/or stretchable in at least one direction to at least 10%, and preferably to at least 20%, based on the length and/or width of the inner shoe material (3) in an unstretched state.

30. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), has at least one inner layer and/or a carrier material (10), in particular wherein the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10), in particular during wear and/or use, is provided on the inside of the inner shoe material (3) and/or in particular wherein the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) is provided on the side of the inner shoe material (3) facing away from the foot area to be protected during wear.

31. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 30, wherein the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) is a textile sheet material, preferably an air-permeable textile material, in particular a woven fabric, knit fabric, crocheted fabric, laid fabric, web or nonwoven or textile composite, and/or wherein the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) has a weight per unit area in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 400 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 20 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 30 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2.

32. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), has at least one outer layer (11), in particular wherein the outer layer (11), in particular during wear and/or use, is provided on the outer side of the inner shoe material (3) and/or in particular wherein the outer layer (11) is provided on the side of the inner shoe material facing away from the foot area to be protected during wear (3).

33. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 32, wherein the outer layer (11) is a textile sheet material, preferably an air-permeable textile material, in particular a woven fabric, knit fabric, crocheted fabric, laid fabric, web or nonwoven or textile composite, in particular a woven fabric or knit fabric, and/or wherein the outer layer (11) has a weight per unit area in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 350 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 300 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 20 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2.

34. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 30 through 33, wherein the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) and/or the outer layer (11), independently of one another, is/are a textile sheet material composed of natural and/or synthetic fibers, and preferably synthetic fibers (chemical fibers) and/or wherein the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) and/or the outer layer (11), independently of one another, is/are a textile sheet material with or composed of natural and/or synthetic fibers, in particular from the group of polyesters (PES); polyolefins, such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), polyvinylchloride (CLF); polyvinylidenechloride (CLF); acetate (CA); triacetate (CTA); polyacrylic (PAN), polyamide (PA); polyaramids; polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL); polyurethanes; polyvinyl esters; (meth)acrylates; and mixtures and/or combinations thereof.

35. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), has at least one adsorption layer (12) comprising or composed of the adsorptive material (14), in particular wherein the adsorption layer (12) is arranged between the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) and the outer layer (11) and/or wherein the adsorption layer (12) is discontinuously configured and/or wherein the adsorption layer (12) is configured as an adsorption sheet filter.

36. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the adsorptive material (14), in particular the adsorptive material (14) of the adsorption layer (12), is selected from the group of (i) in particular particulate activated carbon and/or activated carbon particles, preferably in the form of activated carbon particles in granular form (granular carbon) or in spherical form (spherical carbon); (ii) zeolites, in particular natural and/or synthetic zeolites; (iii) molecular sieves, in particular zeolite molecular sieves, synthetic molecular sieves and/or in particular synthetic molecular sieves based on carbon, oxides and/or glasses; (iv) metal oxide and/or metal particles; (v) ion-exchange resins, in particular polydisperse and/or monodisperse cation and/or anion exchangers, in particular of the gel type and/or macroporous type; (vi) anorganic oxides, in particular silicon dioxides, silica gels and/or aluminum oxides; (vii) porous organic polymers and/or porous organic-anorganic hybrid polymers and/or organometallic framework materials, in particular MOFs (metal organic frameworks), COFs (covalent organic frameworks), ZIFs (zeolite imidazolate frameworks), POMs (polymer organic materials) and/or OFCs; (viii) mineral granulates; (ix) clathrates; and (x) mixtures and/or combinations thereof; and/or wherein the adsorptive material (14), in particular the adsorptive material (14) of the adsorption layer (12), is formed from or composed of preferably particulate activated carbon and/or activated carbon particles, preferably in the form of activated carbon particles in granular form (granular carbon) or in spherical form (spherical carbon).

37. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the adsorptive material (14), in particular the adsorptive material (14) of the adsorption layer (12), has a granular and/or particulate configuration and/or wherein the diameter of the adsorptive material (14), in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon and/or the activated carbon particles, is in the range of 0.005 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably in the range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, preferably in the range of 0.015 mm to 0.5 mm, particularly preferably in the range of 0.02 mm to 0.3 mm, and most particularly preferably in the range of 0.03 mm to 0.15 mm and/or wherein the mean diameter, in particular the mean diameter D50, of the adsorptive material (14), in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon and/or the activated carbon particles, is in the range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, in particular in the range of 0.02 mm to 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.03 mm to 0.5 mm, particularly preferably in the range of 0.04 mm to 0.4 mm, and most particularly preferably in the range of 0.04 mm to 0.2 mm.

38. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the adsorptive materials (14), in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon and/or the activated carbon particles, are used in an amount in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2, in particular 10 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2, preferably 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 20 g/m.sup.2 to 75 g/m.sup.2 and/or wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the adsorption layer (12), comprises the adsorptive material (14), in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon and/or the activated carbon particles, in an amount in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2, in particular 10 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2, preferably 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 20 g/m.sup.2 to 75 g/m.sup.2.

39. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 36 through 38, wherein the preferably particulate activated carbon is obtainable by carbonization and subsequent activation of a starting material that is synthetic and/or not based on natural substances, and in particular is based on organic polymers; and/or wherein the preferably particulate activated carbon is obtained from a starting material based on organic polymers, in particular based on sulfonated organic polymers, preferably based on divinylbenzene cross-linked polystyrene, and preferably based on styrene/divinylbenzene copolymers, in particular by carbonization and subsequent activation of the starting material, in particular wherein the content of divinylbenzene in the starting material is in the range of 1 wt % to 20 wt %, in particular 1 wt % to 15 wt %, preferably 1.5 wt % to 12.5 wt %, and preferably 2 wt % to 10 wt % based on the starting material; and/or in particular wherein the starting material in particular is an ion-exchange resin containing sulfonated and/or sulfonic acid groups, in particular of the gel type; and/or wherein a polymer-based spherical activated carbon (PBSAC) is used as a preferably particulate activated carbon and/or wherein the activated carbon is a polymer-based spherical activated carbon (PBSAC).

40. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 36 through 39, wherein the preferably particulate activated carbon has a total pore volume, in particular a total pore volume as claimed in Gurvich, in the range of 0.3 cm.sup.3/g to 3.8 cm.sup.3/g, in particular in the range of 0.4 cm.sup.3/g to 3.5 cm.sup.3/g, preferably in the range of 0.5 cm.sup.3/g to 3 cm.sup.3/g, particularly preferably in the range of 0.6 cm.sup.3/g to 2.5 cm.sup.3/g, and most particularly preferably in the range of 0.5 cm.sup.3/g to 1.5 cm.sup.3/g; and/or wherein at least 65%, in particular at least 70%, preferably at least 75%, and preferably at least 80% of the total pore volume, in particular the total pore volume as claimed in Gurvich, of the preferably particulate activated carbon is composed of pores with diameters of at most 50 nm, in particular micro- and/or mesopores; and/or wherein 50% to 95%, in particular 60% to 90%, and preferably 70% to 85%, of the total pore volume, in particular the total pore volume as claimed in Gurvich, of the preferably particulate activated carbon is composed of pores with diameters of at most 50 nm, in particular micro- and/or mesopores; and/or wherein 1% to 60%, in particular 5% to 50%, preferably 10% to 40%, and preferably 15% to 35% of the total pore volume, in particular the total pore volume as claimed in Gurvich, of the preferably particulate activated carbon is composed of pores with diameters of more than 2 nm, in particular meso- and/or macropores; and/or wherein the preferably particulate activated carbon has a pore volume composed of pores with diameters of at most 2 nm (i.e. <2 nm), in particular micropore volumes as claimed in carbon black, in the range of 0.05 cm.sup.3/g to 2.5 cm.sup.3/g, in particular 0.15 cm.sup.3/g to 2 cm.sup.3/g, and preferably 0.3 cm.sup.3/g to 1.5 cm.sup.3/g, and in particular wherein 15% to 98%, in particular 25% to 95%, and preferably 35% to 90%, of the total pore volume of the preferably particulate activated carbon is composed of pores with diameters of at most 2 nm, in particular micropores.

41. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 36 through 40, wherein the preferably particulate activated carbon has a specific BET surface area in the range of 600 m.sup.2/g to 4,000 m.sup.2/g, in particular 800 m.sup.2/g to 3,500 m.sup.2/g, preferably 1,000 m.sup.2/g to 3,000 m.sup.2/g, particularly preferably 1,200 m.sup.2/g to 2,750 m.sup.2/g, and most particularly preferably 1,300 m.sup.2/g to 2,500 m.sup.2/g; and/or wherein the preferably particulate activated carbon has a surface area composed of pores with diameters of at most 2 nm, in particular micropores, in the range of 400 to 3,500 m.sup.2/g, in particular 500 to 3,000 m.sup.2/g, preferably 600 to 2,500 m.sup.2/g, and preferably 700 to 2,000 m.sup.2/g; and/or wherein the preferably particulate activated carbon has a surface area composed of pores with diameters in the range of 2 nm to 50 nm, in particular mesopores, in the range of 200 to 2,000 m.sup.2/g, in particular 300 to 1,900 m.sup.2/g, preferably 400 to 1,800 m.sup.2/g, and preferably 500 to 1,700 m.sup.2/g; and/or wherein the preferably particulate activated carbon has a mean pore diameter in the range of 0.1 nm to 55 nm, in particular 0.2 nm to 50 nm, preferably 0.5 nm to 45 nm, and preferably 1 nm to 40 nm.

42. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the adsorptive material (14), in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon, is impregnated with at least one catalyst, in particular wherein copper, silver, cadmium, platinum, palladium, zinc and/or mercury ions are preferably used as catalytic enzymes and/or metal ions and/or in particular wherein the amount of catalyst is 0.05 to 12 wt %, preferably 1 to 10 wt %, and particularly preferably 2 to 8 wt %, based on the weight of the adsorptive material (14), in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon.

43. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the adsorption layer (12) comprises at least one carrier (13), in particular wherein the carrier (13) is arranged on the side of the adsorption layer (12) facing towards the inner layer (10) and/or in particular wherein the carrier (13) is arranged between the inner layer (10) and the adsorptive material (14) and/or in particular wherein the carrier (13) is a textile sheet material, preferably an air-permeable textile material, in particular a woven fabric, knit fabric, crocheted fabric, laid fabric, web or nonwoven or textile composite, preferably a woven fabric, and/or in particular wherein the carrier (13) has a weight per unit area in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 250 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2.

44. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the adsorptive material (14), in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon, is fastened on the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) or the carrier (13), in particular wherein the adsorptive material (14) is arranged on the side of the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) facing the external layer (11) or on the carrier (13).

45. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein fastening and/or fixation of the adsorptive material (14), in particular of the preferably particulate activated carbon, is carried out by means of at least one adhesive layer (15a, 15b) and/or wherein the adsorption layer (12) comprises at least one adhesive layer (15a, 15b) for fastening and/or fixation of the adsorptive material (14), in particular wherein the adhesive layer (15a, 15b) is arranged between the adsorptive material (14) and the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) or the carrier (13), and/or wherein the adhesive layer (15a, 15b) is configured to be discontinuous and/or air-permeable.

46. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 45, wherein the adhesive layer (15a, 15b) is in the form of an adhesive layer that is configured in particular to be air-permeable, discontinuous and/or punctate and/or non-cohesive (15a) and/or in the form of an adhesive layer comprising discrete adhesive clumps (15a).

47. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 45, wherein the adhesive layer (15a, 15b) is configured in the form of an in particular air-permeable, flat and/or continuously and/or coherently configured adhesive layer (15b), and preferably in the form of an in particular air-permeable foam material, and/or wherein the adhesive layer (15a, 15b) is an in particular air-permeably configured adhesive layer (15b) based on a dried and/or cured, in particular cross-linked, broken adhesive polymer foam, in particular wherein the broken adhesive polymer foam comprises a number of dried and/or cured, in particular cross-linked, destroyed and/or burst and/or collapsed foam bubbles, and/or in particular wherein the broken adhesive polymer foam, in particular the dried and/or cured, in particular cross-linked, destroyed and/or burst and/or collapsed foam bubbles of the broken adhesive foam, has/have a number of destroyed and/or broken and/or collapsed walls and/or projections composed of adhesive polymer.

48. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 45 through 47, wherein the adhesive layer (15a, 15b) is applied to and/or present on the carrier material (10) or the carrier (13) in an amount in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 80 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 20 g/m.sup.2 to 60 g/m.sup.2 and/or wherein the adhesive layer (15a, 15b) has a weight per unit area in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 80 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 20 g/m.sup.2 to 60 g/m.sup.2, and/or wherein preferably thickened plastic dispersions, hot-melt adhesives or reactive adhesives, in particular polyurethane-based one or two-component systems, preferably masked prepolymeric diisocyanates, which in particular undergo crosslinking via di- or polyfunctional amines or alcohols, are used as adhesives for the adhesive layer (15a, 15b), and/or wherein the adhesive for the adhesive layer (15a, 15b), in particular the adhesive polymer, is selected from the group of polyacrylate (PA), polymethacrylate (PMA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyurethane (PU) and silicones and mixtures and/or combinations of at least two of the above-mentioned compounds, preferably polyurethane (PU), and/or wherein the adhesive for the adhesive layer (15a, 15b), in particular the adhesive polymer, is a polyurethane (PU).

49. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), comprises a spacing layer (16), in particular wherein the spacing layer (16) is arranged between the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) and the adsorption layer (12) and/or in particular wherein the spacing layer (16) is configured in the form of a web (nonwoven), an in particular air-permeable foam layer or a textile sheet material, in particular a woven fabric or knit fabric, preferably a knit fabric, and/or in particular wherein the spacing layer (16) has a weight per unit area in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2, in particular 10 g/m.sup.2 to 125 g/m.sup.2, preferably 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 20 g/m.sup.2 to 75 g/m.sup.2.

50. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 1 through 49, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), comprises no in particular air-impermeable (barrier) layers and/or in particular air-impermeable membrane, in particular no membrane impermeable to chemical and/or biological and/or nuclear toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents.

51. The footwear unit as claimed in one of claims 1 through 49, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular the multilayer structure (3a) and/or the laminate (3a) and/or the multilayer material (3a), comprises at least one membrane (17), in particular wherein the membrane (17) is arranged between the adsorption layer (12) and the outer layer (11), and/or wherein the membrane (17) is arranged between the inner layer and/or the carrier material (10) of the outer layer (11), in particular wherein the membrane (17) is configured to be water-impermeable and/or air-impermeable and/or wherein the membrane (17) is configured to be breathable, in particular water vapor-permeable, and/or wherein the membrane (17) is at least essentially impermeable to chemical and/or biological and/or nuclear toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (17) is a continuous, in particular closed or possibly microporous membrane (17), and/or wherein the thickness of the membrane (17) is in the range of 1 to 500 m, in particular 1 to 250 m, preferably 1 m to 100 m, preferably 1.5 m to 50 m, particularly preferably 2.5 m to 30 m, and most particularly preferably 5 m to 25 m, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (17) has a swellability and/or a water absorption capacity of at most 35%, in particular at most 25%, based on the net weight of the membrane (17) and/or wherein the membrane (17) has no or essentially no strongly hydrophilic groups, in particular no hydroxyl groups, and/or wherein the membrane (17) has weakly hydrophilic groups, in particular polyether groups, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (17) is configured to be extensible and/or stretchable in at least one direction, in particular in the longitudinal direction and/or width direction, to at least 10%, in particular to at least 20%, and preferably to at least 30%, based on the length and/or width of the membrane (17) in the unstretched and/or non-stretched state, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (17) comprises or is composed of a plastic and/or a polymer, in particular wherein the plastic and/or the polymer is selected from the group of polyurethanes, polyether amides, polyester amides, polyether esters, polytetrafluoroethylenes and/or cellulose-based polymers and derivatives of the above-mentioned compounds, preferably polyether esters and polytetrafluoroethylenes, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (17) is applied to, in particular laminated and/or lined onto a membrane carrier layer, in particular wherein the membrane carrier layer in particular is an air-permeable two-dimensional textile sheet material, in particular selected from the group of woven fabrics, knit fabrics, crocheted fabrics, laid fabrics, textile composites and non-woven fabrics, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (17) has a water vapor permeability at 25 C. and a thickness of 50 m of at least 12.5 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h, in particular at least 17.5 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h, and preferably at least 20 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h or even more, and/or in particular wherein the membrane (17) has a water vapor transmission resistance R.sub.et under stationary conditions, measured as claimed in DIN 31 093:1993 of February 1994 or as claimed in international standard ISO 11 092 and at 35 C., of at most 25 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, in particular at most 20 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, and preferably at most 13 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, with a thickness of 50 m.

52. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner shoe material (3) is configured in multiple pieces or parts, in particular wherein the individual (surface) sections of the inner shoe material (3) are connected to one another by means of sewing, gluing, and/or welding and/or in particular wherein the individual (surface) sections of the inner shoe material (3) are connected to one another via connecting areas (22a, 22b, 22c), in particular seams, and preferably flat seams.

53. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the sole area (18) and/or the instep area (19) and/or the toe area (20) and/or the heel and/or ankle joint area (21) of the inner shoe material (3) is/are configured to be free of connections and/or seams.

54. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting areas of the article of footwear (2) and the connecting areas (22a, 22b, 22c) of the inner shoe material (3) are arranged such that that during wear and/or use of the footwear unit (1), the respective connecting areas of the article of footwear (2) on the one hand and of the inner shoe material (3) on the other at least essentially do not overlap and/or at least essentially are not arranged during wear and/or use of the footwear unit (1) at superposed sites of the article of footwear (2) and the inner shoe material (3).

55. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner shoe material (3) comprises at least one contact and/or connection device (4a), in particular for preferably sectional and/or detachable and/or non-permanent and/or sealing connection and/or for preferably sectional and/or detachable and/or non-permanent and/or sealing contact of the inner shoe material (3) with the article of footwear (2), in particular wherein the contact and/or connection device (4a) is positioned on the shaft (24) of the inner shoe material (3) and/or is connected to the shaft (24) of the inner shoe material (3).

56. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the article of footwear (2) comprises at least one contact and/or connection device (4b), in particular for preferably sectional and/or detachable and/or non-permanent and/or sealing connection and/or for preferably sectional and/or detachable and/or non-permanent and/or sealing contact of the article of footwear (2) with the inner shoe material (3), in particular wherein the contact and/or connection device (4b) is positioned on the shaft (25) of the article of footwear (2) and/or is connected to the shaft (25) of the article of footwear (2).

57. The footwear unit as claimed in claim 55 or 56, wherein the contact and/or connection devices (4a, 4b), in particular during wear and/or use of the footwear unit (1), are arranged at areas of the inner shoe material (3) and of the article of footwear (2) that correspond and/or are opposite and/or in contact with one another and/or wherein the contact and/or connection device (4a, 4b) is configured in the form of a rubber seal, a Velcro fastener, a zipper or the like.

58. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner shoe material (3) comprises a preferably elastic and/or reversibly stretchable closing band (26), in particular wherein the closing band (26) is connected to the shaft (24) of the inner shoe material (3) and/or the contact and/or connection device (4a) of the inner shoe material (3), and preferably via a connection (22c), in particular a seam.

59. The footwear unit as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the footwear unit (1) has a barrier action against harmful substances and/or toxins, in particular chemical warfare agents, in particular bis[2-chlorethyl]sulfide, determined as claimed in method 2.2 CRDC-SP-84010, of at most 4 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, in particular at most 3.5 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, preferably at most 3.0 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, preferably at most 2.5 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, particularly preferably at most 2.25 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, and most particularly preferably at most 2 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h.

60. A method for equipping an article of footwear (2), in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, with an in particular modular protective function against radioactive toxic and/or harmful substances and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein an inner shoe material (3) comprising at least one adsorptive material (14), in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, and the article of footwear (2) are combined as functionally coherent and/or functionally mutually associated, but disconnected and/or separate, in particular spatially separate components in particular in order to form a functional protective clothing unit (1).

61. A method for providing a functional footwear unit (1), preferably with an in particular modular protective function against radioactive toxic and/or harmful substances and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein an inner shoe material (3) comprising at least one adsorptive material (14), in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, and an article of footwear (2), in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, are combined as functionally coherent and/or functionally mutually associated, but disconnected and/or separate, in particular spatially separate components.

62. A method for prolonging and/or increasing the protective function of an article of footwear (2), in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, against radioactive toxic and/or harmful substances and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein an inner shoe material (3) comprising at least one adsorptive material (14), in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, and the article of footwear (2) are combined as functionally coherent and/or functionally mutually associated, but disconnected and/or separate, in particular spatially separate components.

63. The use of an inner shoe material (3) comprising at least one adsorptive material (14), in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, for equipping a functional footwear unit (1) with an in particular modular protective function against radioactive toxic and/or harmful substances and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein the inner shoe material (3) and an article of footwear (2) are combined as functionally coherent and/or functionally mutually associated, but disconnected and/or separate, in particular spatially separate components.

64. The use of an inner shoe material (3) comprising at least one adsorptive material (14), in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, for prolonging and/or increasing the protective function of an article of footwear (2), in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, against radioactive toxic and/or harmful substances and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein the inner shoe material (3) and the article of footwear (2) are combined as functionally coherent and/or functionally mutually associated, but disconnected and/or separate, in particular spatially separate components.

65. The method as claimed in claim 60 or as claimed in claim 61 or as claimed in claim 62 or the use as claimed in claim 63 or as claimed in claim 64, wherein the inner shoe material (3), in particular during wear and/or use, is arranged on the inside of the article of footwear (2) and/or wherein the inner shoe material is arranged during wear between the article of footwear (2) and the area of the foot to be protected and/or is provided on the side of the article of footwear facing the foot area to be protected during wear.

66. The method as claimed in claim 60 or as claimed in claim 61 or as claimed in claim 62 or the use as claimed in claim 63 or as claimed in claim 64, characterized by one or more of the features as claimed in claims 1 through 59.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] FIG. 1 provides a diagrammatic view of the functional footwear unit according to the invention, with an article of footwear on the one hand and an inner shoe material (foot covering material) that is arranged separately in the article of footwear during use or wear, in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, on the other;

[0056] FIG. 2 provides a diagrammatic sectional view in the form of a sectional enlargement of FIG. 1 (section I of said figure) through the layer structure of an article of footwear on which the functional footwear unit is based according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, according to which the article of footwear as such comprises an additional membrane;

[0057] FIG. 3A provides a diagrammatic sectional view in the form of a sectional enlargement of FIG. 1 (section II of said figure) through the layer structure of an inner shoe material on which the footwear unit according to the invention is based, with discontinuous fixation of the adsorptive material used for the inner shoe material, wherein the layer structure comprises no additional membrane (preferred embodiment compared to FIG. 3C);

[0058] FIG. 3B provides a further diagrammatic sectional view in the form of a sectional enlargement of FIG. 1 (section II) through the layer structure of the inner shoe material according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, according to which the adsorptive material is fastened in place by means of a continuously configured fixation, for example in the form of a foam or the like, wherein the layer structure comprises no additional membrane (preferred embodiment compared to FIG. 3D);

[0059] FIG. 3C provides a diagrammatic sectional view in the form of a sectional enlargement of FIG. 1 (section II of said figure) through the layer structure of an inner shoe material on which the footwear unit according to the invention is based, with discontinuous fixation of the adsorptive material used, wherein the layer structure comprises an additional membrane (less preferable embodiment compared to FIG. 3A);

[0060] FIG. 3D provides a further diagrammatic sectional view in the form of a sectional enlargement of FIG. 1 (section II) through the layer structure of the inner shoe material according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, according to which the adsorptive material is fastened in place by means of a continuously configured attachment, for example in the form of a foam or the like, wherein the layer structure has an additional membrane (less preferable embodiment compared to FIG. 3B);

[0061] FIG. 4 provides a diagrammatic view in the form of a top view of an inner shoe material on which the functional footwear unit is based in the form of a sock or a stocking.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0062] FIG. 1 shows a functional footwear unit 1 according to the invention, which in particular is in the form of a kit (kit of parts), wherein the functional footwear unit 1 according to the invention is preferably equipped with an in particular modular protective function against radioactive toxic or warfare agents and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents. The functional footwear unit 1 according to the invention is therefore characterized in that the footwear unit 1 comprises, as functionally coherent or functionally mutually associated, but disconnected or separate, in particular spatially separate components, on the one hand (A) an article of footwear 2, in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, and on the other (B) an inner shoe material (foot covering material) 3, comprising at least one adsorptive material 14, and in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, preferably for prolonging or increasing the protective function of the article of footwear 2. FIG. 1 illustrates in particular the functional footwear unit 1 according to the invention during wear or use, according to which the inner shoe material 3 is accommodated by the article of footwear 2.

[0063] In the context of the present invention, it is preferred in particular that the footwear unit 1 according to the invention is equipped with a protective function against radioactive toxic or harmful substances and/or against biological toxic or harmful substances and/or against chemical toxic or harmful substances. The footwear unit 1 according to the invention thus provides extensive protection against the widest variety of toxic or harmful substances, which is achieved in particular through the selective interaction of the article of footwear 2 on the one hand and the inner shoe material 3 on the other, according to which the respective protective properties can in particular complement one another. In this connection in particular, it is possible according to the invention to adapt or tailor the required profile of the respective protective function through specific configuration and coordination of the components on which the functional footwear unit 1 is based with respect to the article of footwear 2 on the one hand and the inner shoe material 3 on the other.

[0064] For example, it can be provided in a non-limiting manner that the article of footwear 2 already has a protective function against the toxins or harmful substances in question based on barrier properties, wherein the barrier function, as described in detail below, can be provided for example through the selective use of a (barrier layer) membrane or by specially equipping the surface of the article of footwear 2 with harmful-substance-resisting properties, while the inner shoe material 3 has a supplementary (reserve) protective action based on adsorptive properties of the inner shoe material 3 as a result of the use of an adsorptive material.

[0065] In particular, it is provided according to the invention that in particular during use, the inner shoe material 3 is not permanently connected to the article of footwear 2 or that the inner shoe material 3 is not a permanent component of the article of footwear 2. In particular, in the context of the present invention, the inner shoe material 3, in particular during wear or use, lies loosely or in an unconnected manner on the article of footwear 2, or the article of footwear 2, in particular during wear or use, lies loosely or in an unconnected manner on the inner shoe material 3.

[0066] In other words, the components used according to the invention for the functional footwear unit 1 are separate and physically independent components, which can be present separately from one another, so to speak, in particular when the unit is not being used. In this case, provision of the functional footwear unit 1 in the form of the respective components gives rise, as it were, to the modularity of the footwear unit 1 according to the invention. As mentioned above, the advantages accompanying this are in particular that on the one hand, the protective function provided by coordination of the components can be supplemented in modular fashion or individually adapted, wherein the respective components can be easily exchanged or replaced in the case of loss of functionality or contamination. On the other hand, the design according to the invention, which is based on modularity, leads to improved use and handling properties, in particular as the respective components can be put on or worn like conventional footwear or conventional inner shoe materials, in particular with respect to the configuration in the form of a sock or a stocking. Moreover, logistics and storage are also improved, because as mentioned above, the respective components can be handled or stored separately from one another, which accordingly reflects the corresponding specific properties of the components.

[0067] Quite surprisingly, the applicant found in this connection that the protective performance of the system as a whole and thus the footwear unit 1 according to the invention is further improved by means of the separate configuration of the article of footwear 2 on the one hand and the inner shoe material 3 on the other, which lie against each other during wear or use in a loose or disconnected manner. Without wishing to limit ourselves to this theory, the loose arrangement of the components sometimes results in a small air gap between the article of footwear 2 on the one hand and the inner shoe material 3 on the other, leading to improved convection of the air to be purified, accompanied by improved utilization of the adsorptive material 14 of the inner shoe material 2 with respect to the toxic or harmful substances to be adsorbed.

[0068] As a result of the modular structure of the functional footwear unit according to the invention 1, according to which the inner shoe material 3, in particular in the form of a sock or a stocking, already shows a strong protective function due to the use of an adsorptive material 14, numerous physical or design embodiments in particular can be implemented for the article of footwear 2. For example, in a non-limitative manner, the article of footwear 2 can be in the form of a water vapor-permeable or breathable lace-up boot or shoe. In this connection, the article of footwear 2 can be further optimized, in particular with respect to wearing comfort and convenience, for example with respect to the use of (shoe) seams.

[0069] In particular, it is provided according to the invention that the inner shoe material 3 is provided for arrangement, in particular during wear or use, on the inside of the article of footwear 2, as shown in FIG. 1. In particular, the inner shoe material 3 is provided for arrangement during wear between the article of footwear 2 and the area of the foot to be protected. In particular, the inner shoe material 3 can be provided for arrangement on the side of the article of footwear 2 turned towards the area of the foot to be protected during wear.

[0070] In this connection, it is provided in particular according to the invention that the inner shoe material 3, so to speak, fully or completely covers or encloses the foot area, i.e. the foot as such (with the associated toe, sole, heel, and instep areas). In particular, the inner shoe material 3 can also cover the area of the ankle and the area in particular of the lower calf (leg shaft). As mentioned above, the inner shoe material 3 can be configured in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, which also entails that the inner shoe material 3 lies during wear or use closely against the body areas or the foot and lower leg area to be covered, which is advantageous with respect to wearing comfort and convenience on the one hand and the provision of an effective protective function on the other.

[0071] Further with respect to the article of footwear 2 of the footwear unit 1 according to the invention, it can be provided for arrangement, in particular during wear or use, on the outer side of the inner shoe material 3, as likewise shown in FIG. 1. In particular, the article of footwear 2 can be provided for arrangement on the side of the inner shoe material facing away from the foot area to be protected during wear 3. In this connection, in addition to its supplementary protective function against the toxic or harmful substances in question, the article of footwear 2 also provides in particular mechanical protection against external mechanical effects.

[0072] In the following, the article of footwear 2 as such is described in further detail:

[0073] As shown in particular in FIG. 2, the article of footwear 2 can comprise a multilayer, in particular laminate-type structure 2a. In this connection, the article of footwear 2 can be configured according to a preferred embodiment of the invention in multiple layers, in particular in the form of a laminate 2a. In particular, the article of footwear 2 can comprise or be composed of a multilayer material 2a.

[0074] According to the invention, it is provided in particular in this connection that, as shown in FIG. 2, the individual layers 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 of the multilayer structure 2a or the laminate 2a or the multilayer material 2a in particular are connected to one another sectionally or in particular over their entire surface. In particular, the individual layers 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 of the multilayer structure 2a or the laminate 2a or the multilayer material 2a can form a composite. This is conducive in particular to the mechanical stability of the article of footwear 2. By selecting and coordinating the respective layers of the multilayer structure, as described below in particular, the properties of the article of footwear 2 can be preset or adjusted, specifically with respect to coordination with the inner shoe material 3.

[0075] In particular, the respective layers 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 can be connected to one another, for example by methods known per se for this purpose (e.g. by gluing, welding, riveting, stapling etc.). Advantageously, connecting or fixing of the individual layers 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 of the layered structure to one another takes place seamlessly, preferably without damaging the individual layers (e.g. by gluing, welding etc.). For the case of stitching or the like, it can also be provided that the seams are correspondingly sealed, which can be carried out using a so-called seam sealing strip.

[0076] It can also be provided according to the invention that the article of footwear 2, in particular the multilayer structure 2a or the laminate 2a or the multilayer material 2a, is configured to be water-impermeable and/or air-impermeable, but also water vapor-permeable. In particular, the article of footwear 2, in particular the multilayer structure 2a or the laminate 2a or the multilayer material 2a, can be configured to be breathable. According to a preferred embodiment according to the invention, it can also be provided that the article of footwear 2, in particular the multilayer structure 2a or the laminate 2a or the multilayer material 2a, is configured to be extensible and/or elastic (in particular reversibly extensible) and/or stretchable in at least one direction to at least 5%, preferably to at least 10%, based on the length and/or width of the article of footwear 2, in particular of the multilayer structure 2a and/or laminate 2a and/or multilayer material 2a in an unstretched state, which is also conducive to wearing comfort.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 2, it is provided in particular according to the invention that the article of footwear 2, in particular the multilayer structure 2a or the laminate 2a or the multilayer material 2a, comprises at least one outer or covering layer 5. In this connection, it is provided in particular that the outer or covering layer 5, in particular during wear or use, is arranged on the outer side of the article of footwear 2. In addition, the outer or covering layer 5 can be provided in particular on the side of the article of footwear 2 facing away from the foot area to be protected during wear.

[0078] In particular, the outer or covering layer 5 can be configured as a continuous, in particular break or perforation-free and/or closed layer. This ensures in particular that in addition to the mechanical stability provided by the outer or covering layer 5, a certain protective function against the toxins or harmful substances in question is already provided, in particular if the outer or covering layer 5 is further surface-treated, as explained in particular below.

[0079] In this connection, it can be provided according to the invention that the outer or covering layer 5 comprises or is composed of leather or a plastic, preferably leather. In particular, the use of leather provides high mechanical stability with simultaneously favorable wearing comfort.

[0080] Further with respect to the outer or covering layer 5, this can generally comprise or be composed of a material selected from the group of leather; rubbers, in particular chloroprene rubbers, preferably neoprenes, and fluororubbers; rubber, in particular silicone rubber, fluorine rubber, butyl rubber, urethane rubber, and preferably butyl rubber; plastics, in particular aramids, polyamides and halogenated plastics; and mixtures and combinations thereof. As mentioned above, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the outer or covering layer 5 can comprise or be composed of leather.

[0081] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, it can also be provided that the outer or covering layer 5 is configured as a two-dimensional textile sheet material, in particular in the form of a woven fabric. In this connection, the outer or covering layer 5 can contain or be composed of at least one preferably flame-retardant fiber material, preferably selected from the group of aramid fibers; polyamide fibers, in particular nylon; fibers with a high halogen content; polyalkylene fibers, in particular polyethylene fibers, preferably fibers of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE); and mixtures and combinations thereof.

[0082] With respect to the outer or covering layer 5, this can have a weight per unit area in the range of 50 g/m.sup.2 to 2,000 g/m.sup.2, in particular 100 g/m.sup.2 to 1,500 g/m.sup.2, preferably 150 g/m.sup.2 to 1,000 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 200 g/m.sup.2 to 750 g/m.sup.2.

[0083] With respect to the thickness of the material of the outer or covering layer 5, this can vary over a wide range. However, it is preferred according to the invention to provide a thickness of the outer or covering layer 5 in the range of 0.5 to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 4 mm, and preferably 1 mm to 3 mm.

[0084] The article of footwear 2, in particular the multilayer structure 2a or the laminate 2a or the multilayer material 2a, can also comprise at least one inner layer (FIG. 2). In this case, the inner layer 6, in particular during wear or use, can be provided on the inside of the article of footwear 2. In particular, the inner layer 6 can be provided on the side of the article of footwear facing the foot area to be protected during wear 2. In particular, the inner layer 6 can be an inner shoe lining.

[0085] Further with respect to the inner layer 6, this can be configured as a two-dimensional textile sheet material, in particular in the form of a woven fabric, knit fabric, crocheted fabric, laid fabric, composite nonwoven fabric or nonwoven fabric, in particular in the form of a woven fabric, knit fabric and/or nonwoven fabric. In this connection, the weight per unit area of the inner layer 6 can vary over a wide range.

[0086] Because of the modular structure of the footwear unit 1 according to the invention, with the use of a special inner shoe material 3, the inner layer 6 of the article of footwear 2 can have only a low weight per unit area or even be dispensed with completely, as the function of a lining material can already be provided by the inner shoe material 3. In particular, the inner layer 6 can have a weight per unit area in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 500 g/m.sup.2, in particular 25 g/m.sup.2 to 400 g/m.sup.2, preferably 50 g/m.sup.2 to 300 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 75 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2.

[0087] Moreover, the inner layer 6 can comprise or be composed of at least one fiber material selected from the group of natural substances and synthetic substances, in particular silk, cotton, wool, linen, elastane, modacrylic, aramid, in particular meta-aramid, and mixtures and combinations thereof. In general, air-permeable textile materials can be used for the inner layer 6. In particular, the inner layer can comprise oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or a flame-retardant coating, in particular as described in the following for the layer 9.

[0088] According to a preferred embodiment according to the invention, the article of footwear 2 can further comprise a membrane 7 as shown in FIG. 2 and in particular as specified below:

[0089] As mentioned above, the article of footwear 2, in particular the multilayer structure 2a or the laminate 2a or the multilayer material 2a, can comprise at least one membrane 7. In this connection, the membrane 7 can be arranged in particular between the outer or covering layer 5 and the inner layer 6 (FIG. 2).

[0090] In particular, the membrane 7 can be configured to be water-impermeable or air-impermeable. In addition, the membrane 7 should be at least essentially impermeable, in particular to chemical or biological or nuclear toxic or harmful substances. The membrane 7 thus performs the function of a barrier layer against the toxic or warfare agents, so that in this manner, the article of footwear 2 as such is already provided with improved protective properties.

[0091] Because of this special property of the membrane 7, it is ensured according to the invention that any toxic or harmful substances that penetrate through the outer or covering layer 5 of the shoe material 3 are already retained by the membrane 7 and thus prevented from penetrating further. This also causes the burden on the adsorptive material 14 of the inner shoe material 3 to be reduced, as the toxic or harmful substances in question either do not reach the adsorptive material 14 or reach it only in extremely small quantities, with the result that through additional use of a membrane 7, one achieves a double protective function, so to speak, of the footwear unit 1 according to the invention against harmful substances, said function being provided by means of the barrier action of the membrane 7 and the adsorptive action of the adsorptive material 14.

[0092] Further concerning the optionally present membrane 7, this can be a continuous, in particular closed or possibly microporous membrane 7. In particular, the membrane 7 can have a thickness in the range of 1 m to 500 m, in particular 1 m to 250 m, preferably 1 m to 100 m, preferably 1.5 m to 50 m, particularly preferably 2.5 m to 30 m, and most particularly preferably 5 m to 25 m.

[0093] The optionally provided membrane 7 should at most be only slightly swellable or capable of absorbing water; in particular, the membrane 7 should have a swellability or a water absorption capacity of at most 35%, in particular at most 25%, based on the net weight of the membrane 7. In addition, the membrane 7 should comprise no or essentially no strongly hydrophilic groups, in particular no hydroxyl groups. For the purpose of at most slight swelling, however, the membrane 7 can comprise weakly hydrophilic groups, in particular polyether groups.

[0094] In order to increase wearing comfort or achieve favorable wear resistance, it is advantageous if the membrane 7 is configured to be extensible or stretchable in at least one direction, in particular in the longitudinal and/or width direction, to at least 10%, in particular to at least 20%, and preferably to at least 30%, based on the length and/or width of the membrane 7 in an unstretched or non-stretched state.

[0095] According to the invention, it is advantageous if the membrane 7 comprises a plastic or a polymer or is composed thereof. In particular, the plastic or the polymer can be selected from the group of polyurethanes, polyether amides, polyester amides, polyether esters, polytetrafluoroethylenes and/or cellulose-based polymers and derivatives of the above-mentioned compounds, preferably polyether esters and polytetrafluoroethylenes.

[0096] Similarly, it can be provided according to the invention that the membrane 7 is applied to, in particular laminated or layered onto, a membrane carrier layer (not shown). In this connection, the membrane carrier layer can in particular be an air-permeable two-dimensional textile sheet material, in particular selected from the group of woven fabrics, knit fabrics, crocheted fabrics, laid fabrics, textile composites and non-woven fabrics. In this connection, the membrane can be fixed in particular, by means of an adhesive applied preferably in a punctate manner, to the membrane carrier layers. The stability of the membrane can be increased by using a membrane carrier layer because, without wishing to limit ourselves to this theory, the flat carrier layer basically acts as a supporting layer for the membrane 7, which increases the mechanical stability and the tear resistance of the membrane.

[0097] Moreover, the membrane 7 can have a water vapor permeability at 25 C. and a thickness of 50 m of at least 12.5 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h, in particular at least 17.5 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h, preferably at least 20 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h or more, measured by the inverted cup method according to ASTM E 96 at 25 C. For further details on measurement of water vapor permeability [water vapor transmission, WVT], reference can be made to McCullough et al. A comparison of standard methods for measuring water vapor permeability of fabrics in Meas. Sci. Technol. [Measurements Science and Technology] 14, 1402-1408, August 2003. In this manner, particularly high wearing comfort is ensured.

[0098] In this connection, the membrane 7 can have a water vapor transmission resistance R.sub.et under stationary conditions, measured according to DIN 31 093:1993 of February 1994 or according to the international standard Norm ISO 11092 and at 35 C., of at most 25 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, in particular at most 20 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, and preferably at most 13 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, with a thickness of 50 m. The water vapor transmission resistance R.sub.et can be measured or determined in particular according to DIN 31 093: 1993 of February 1994, TextilienPhysiologische Wirkungen, Messung des Wrme- and Wasserdampfdurchgangswiderstandes unter stationren Bedingungen [TextilesPhysiological actions, measurement of thermal and water vapor transmission resistance under stationary conditions] (sweating guarded-hotplate test).

[0099] As also shown in FIG. 2, it can also be provided according to the invention that the article of footwear 2 comprises a spacing layer 8. In this connection, the spacing layer 8 can be arranged between the inner layer 6 and the outer or covering layer 5 or between the inner layer 6 and the membrane 7. The spacing layer 8 can in particular be configured in the form of a web (nonwoven), a foam layer or a textile sheet material, in particular a woven fabric or knit fabric, preferably a knit fabric. In this case, the weight per unit area of the spacing layer 8 can be in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2, in particular 10 g/m.sup.2 to 125 g/m.sup.2, preferably 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 20 g/m.sup.2 to 75 g/m.sup.2. The optionally present spacing layer 8 serves in particular to provide further mechanical stabilization of the material. In particular, the spacing layer 8 can absorb and attenuate mechanical stresses. In addition, the spacing layer 8 further improves wearing comfort.

[0100] According to the invention, it can also be provided that the article of footwear 2 comprises an oleophobic and/or hydrophobic agent or layer 9, as shown in FIG. 2, in particular in order to further increase the protective function of the article of footwear 2.

[0101] In this connection, the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic agent or layer 9 can preferably be provided on or applied to the side of the article of footwear 2 facing the toxic or harmful substances during wear, as also shown in FIG. 2. The oleophobic and/or hydrophobic agent or layer 9 can in particular be provided on or applied to the side of the article of footwear 2 facing away from the area of the foot to be protected during wear. Because the article of footwear 2 is specially equipped with oleophobic or hydrophobic properties, the protective function of the article of footwear 2 as such is further increased, as the article of footwear 2 shows a stronger barrier or repellent function with respect to organic substances in particular. By selectively subjecting the article of footwear 2 to oleophobic and/or hydrophobic treatment, one can thus ensure to a certain extent that in particular organic substances that are present in liquid form during use or wear cannot or at least essentially cannot penetrate into the article of footwear 2, so that a large portion of the toxic substances impinging on the material is retained on the surface in liquid form, thus beading directly off the surface of the article of footwear, so to speak, which further reduces the burden on the underlying (protective) layers.

[0102] Because of the special oleophobic and/or hydrophobic treatment, it is also ensured according to the invention that the article of footwear 2 can further show water-repellent properties, so that the article of footwear 2 and thus the footwear unit 1 according to the invention can additionally provide favorable overall protection from rain or moisture.

[0103] The substances to be used for the oleophobic or hydrophobic equipment as such or the methods pertaining thereto for equipping the article of footwear 2 are well-known as such to the person skilled in the art. In the context of the present invention, it can be provided for example in this connection that the oleophobic or hydrophobic equipment and/or the oleophobic and/or hydrophobic layer (9a) is/are present in the form of an impregnation or coating. In this case, the impregnation or coating can be carried out by means of at least one fluorocarbon or at least one fluorohydrocarbon, in particular a fluorinated polymer. In this respect, for example, derivatives of perfluorinated alkanesulfonic acids can be used. Similarly, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) can also be used. In addition, the use of fluorinated silicones in particular is generally suitable.

[0104] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the oleophobic or hydrophobic agent or layer 9a can be implemented or applied by means of plasma treatment (cf. FIG. 2).

[0105] For this purpose, the plasma treatment can be carried out directly on the surface of the article of footwear 2, in particular on the surface of the outer or covering layer 5 of the article of footwear 2. The plasma treatment can also be carried out indirectly on the surface of the article of footwear 2, in particular on the surface of the outer or covering layer 5 of the article of footwear 2. In this respect, the plasma treatment can be carried out after application of a preferably polymeric or polymerizable film to the surface to be treated, wherein the polymeric or polymerizable film is crosslinked or cured by means of the plasma treatment. In particular, silicones, especially silicone oils, or organopolysiloxanes can be used as a polymeric or polymerizable film. With respect to the plasma treatment that can be used according to the invention, reference can be made to German patent application DE 10356776 A1, filed by the present applicant, and the patent applications from the same patent family WO 2005/053838 A1 and US 2007/0134483 A1, the entire disclosed contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0106] Moreover, it can also be provided according to the invention that the article of footwear 2 comprises a fire or flame-retardant agent or layer 9b. In this respect, the fire or flame-retardant agent or layer 9b can be in the form of an impregnation or coating (cf. FIG. 2).

[0107] In particular, the fire or flame-retardant agent or layer (9b) can be provided on or applied to the side of the article of footwear 2 facing towards the toxic or harmful substances during wear. In this connection, the fire or flame-retardant agent or layer 9b can be provided on or applied to the side of the article of footwear 2 facing away from the area of the foot to be protected during wear. Similarly, it can be provided that the fire or flame-retardant agent or layer 9b is provided on or applied to the outer or covering layer 5 of the article of footwear 2. In addition, the fire or flame-retardant agent or layer 9b can in particular be arranged on the side of the outer or covering layer 5 facing away from the area of the foot to be protected during wear.

[0108] In particular, the fire or flame-retardant agent or layer 9b can be configured based on (i) phosphoric acid compounds, in particular phosphoric acid esters; (ii) metal salts, in particular antimony or aluminum salts; (iii) fluorinated polymers; and mixtures of two or more of the above-mentioned compounds. As corresponding coating or impregnation methods for equipping the fire or flame-retardant properties in question are well known to the person skilled in the art, no further explanations in this regard are required.

[0109] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the article of footwear 2, in particular the multilayer structure 2a or the laminate 2a or the multilayer material 2a, contains no adsorptive material or is free of adsorptive materials, in particular free of activated carbon (cf. FIG. 2). Accordingly, it is provided according to this preferred embodiment of the invention that the article of footwear 2 has no or essentially no adsorptive properties. According to the invention, it can thus be the case that the article of footwear 2 as such, in particular in contrast to the inner shoe material 3, comprises no adsorption layer or no adsorptive material as such, in particular no activated carbon. In this manner, one can improve in particular the mechanical stability of the article of footwear 2 exposed to strong mechanical stress during wear. The preferred configuration of the article of footwear 2 without adsorptive material is made possible in particular by the modular structure of the footwear unit 1 according to the invention, according to which specifically the inner shoe material 3, which is subjected to lower mechanical stress, is provided with the adsorptive material 14.

[0110] Further with respect to the article of footwear 2 on which the functional footwear unit 1 according to the invention is based, this can, as shown in FIG. 1, comprise a preferably flame-retardant sole 23. The sole 23 can be at least essentially water and/or air-impermeable. In particular, the sole 23 can be composed of a plastic or rubber material.

[0111] It can be provided according to the invention that the article of footwear 2 is configured in multiple pieces or parts. In this case, the individual (surface) sections of the article of footwear 2 can be connected to one another by means of sewing, gluing, and/or welding. In particular, the individual (surface) sections of the article of footwear 2 can be connected to one another by means of connecting areas, in particular seams. For example, the connecting areas can be waterproofed or sealed with seam sealing strips or the like. As mentioned above, the article of footwear 2 can be in the form of numerous embodiments. In particular, the article of footwear 2 can be in the form of a combat boot, firefighting boot, work boot, protective boot, lace-up boot or the like.

[0112] In the following, the inner shoe material 3 on which the functional footwear unit 1 according to the invention is based will be described in further detail:

[0113] It can be provided in particular according to the invention that the inner shoe material 3 has a multilayer, in particular laminate-type structure 3a. In particular, the inner shoe material 3 can be configured in multiple layers, in particular in the form of a laminate 3a. In addition, the inner shoe material 3 can in particular comprise or be composed of a multilayer material 3a. By means of selective selection and coordination of the respective layers, the properties of the inner shoe material can be adjusted and in particular coordinated with respect to the article of footwear 2.

[0114] In this connection, it can be provided in particular according to the invention that the individual layers 10, 11, 12, 16, 17 of the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a are connected to one another in particular sectionally or in particular over their entire surface. In particular, the individual layers 10, 11, 12, 16, 17 of the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a can form a composite.

[0115] According to the invention, it is advantageous if the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, is configured to be air-permeable and/or water or water vapor-permeable. By means of the preferably provided air permeability and water or water vapor permeability of the inner shoe material 3, the wearing comfort of the footwear unit 1 according to the invention is improved overall, particularly because sweat can be more effectively removed. Moreover, effective purification of the air flow passing through the inner shoe material 3 is ensured by improved incident flow or throughflow properties of the adsorptive material 14 or the adsorption layer 12 of the inner shoe material 3.

[0116] In this connection, it can be provided according to the invention that the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, has an air permeability measured according to DIN 53887 or measured at a flow resistance of 127 Pa of at least 200 l/m.sup.2 per second, preferably at least 300 l/m.sup.2 per second, preferably at least 400 l/m.sup.2 per second, particularly preferably at least 600 l/m.sup.2 per second, and most particularly preferably at least 800 l/m.sup.2 per second.

[0117] According to a further, but less preferable embodiment, it can also be provided according to the invention that the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, is configured to be water-impermeable or air-impermeable, but water vapor-permeable. In particular, it can be provided according to this less preferable embodiment of the invention that the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, is configured to be breathable. This is in particular the case when the inner shoe material 3, as discussed in the following, has a membrane 17 or a barrier layer as a further layer according to this less favorable embodiment of the invention.

[0118] The wearing comfort of the inner shoe material 3 and thus the footwear unit 1 according to the invention as a whole can be further improved in that according to an embodiment of the invention, the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, is configured to be extensible or elastic (in particular reversibly extensible) in at least one direction to at least 10%, preferably to at least 20%, based on the length or width of the inner shoe material in an unstretched state. In this manner, the adaptation of the inner shoe material 3 to the anatomy of the wearer can be improved, which also leads to a snug and wrinkle-free fit of the inner shoe material 3 in the area of the foot, thus reducing the formation of pressure or abrasion points or blisters by the wearer of the footwear unit 1.

[0119] With respect to the structure of the inner shoe material 3, said inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, can comprise at least one inner layer or a carrier material 10 (cf. FIG. 3A through 3D). In this case, the inner layer or the carrier material 10 can be provided on the inside of the inner shoe material, in particular during wear or use. In particular, the inner layer or the carrier material 10 can be provided on the side of the inner shoe material 3 facing towards the foot area to be protected during wear. In other words, it is the case in the context of the present invention in particular that the inner layer or the carrier material 10 lies against the skin of a wearer during wear or use, in particular in the foot area or in the area of the ankle joint or the adjacent lower leg.

[0120] The inner layer or the carrier material 10 can preferably be a textile sheet material, preferably an air-permeable textile material, in particular a woven fabric, knit fabric, crocheted fabric, laid fabric, web or nonwoven or textile composite. In particular, the inner layer or the carrier material 10 can have a weight per unit area in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 400 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 20 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 30 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2.

[0121] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, can comprise at least one outer layer 11 (cf. FIGS. 3A through 3D). Concerning the outer layer 11, said layer can be provided, in particular during wear or use, on the outer side of the inner shoe material 3. In particular, the outer layer 11 can be provided on the side of the inner shoe material facing away from the foot area to be protected during wear 3. In other words, it is the case in the context of the present invention in particular that the outer layer 11 of the inner shoe material 3 lies loosely or in an unconnected manner against the article of footwear 2, in particular the inner layer 6 of the article of footwear 2, during wear or use of the functional footwear unit 1.

[0122] Further concerning the outer layer 11 of the inner shoe material 3, it is advantageous if said outer layer 11 is a textile sheet material, preferably an air-permeable textile material. In this manner, wearing comfort can also be further improved with respect to air permeability and removal of sweat. In this connection, the outer layer 11 can be a woven fabric, knit fabric, crocheted fabric, laid fabric, web or nonwoven or a textile composite, in particular a woven fabric or knit fabric. In the context of the present invention, it has been found to be advantageous if the outer layer 11 has a weight per unit area in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 350 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 300 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 20 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2.

[0123] With respect to the inner layer or the carrier material 10 on the one hand or the outer layer 11 on the other, the materials specifically used for this purpose can be configured as defined below.

[0124] In particular, it can be provided in the context of the present invention that the inner layer or the carrier material 10 or the outer layer 11, independently of one another, is/are a textile sheet material composed of natural or synthetic fibers, preferably synthetic fibers (chemical fibers). In addition, it can be provided according to the invention that the inner layer or the carrier material 10 or the outer layer 11, independently of one another, is/are a textile sheet material containing or composed of natural or synthetic fibers, in particular from the group of polyesters (PES); polyolefins, such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), polyvinylchloride (CLF); polyvinylidenechloride (CLF); acetate (CA); triacetate (CTA); polyacrylic (PAN), polyamide (PA); polyaramids; polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL); polyurethanes; polyvinyl esters; (meth)acrylates; and mixtures and combinations thereof.

[0125] According to the invention, the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, can comprise at least one adsorption layer 12 comprising or composed of the adsorptive material 14, as shown in FIGS. 3A through 3D. In this connection, the adsorption layer 12 can be arranged in particular between the inner layer or the carrier material 10 and the outer layer 11. According to the invention, it is advantageous if the adsorption layer 12 is configured to be discontinuous. In particular, the adsorption layer 12 can be configured as an adsorption sheet filter.

[0126] By means of the presence of the adsorptive material 14 or an adsorption layer 12, it is ensured in the context of the present invention that any toxic or harmful substances, in particular chemical toxins or warfare agents penetrating through the outer layer of the article of footwear 2 or through the article of footwear 2 as such, do not come into contact with the foot, as the toxic or harmful substances in question are taken up or adsorbed by the adsorptive material 14 of the adsorption layer 12 and thus rendered harmless by the inner shoe material 3. In this manner, according to the invention, efficient protection against the harmful substances in question with simultaneous high wearing comfort of the functional footwear unit according to the invention 1 is ensured.

[0127] In the context of the present invention, a number of different adsorptive materials 14 can be used as such or for the adsorption layer 12:

[0128] In the context of the present invention, however, it is preferred if the adsorptive material 14, in particular the adsorptive material 14 of the adsorption layer 12, is selected from the group of (i) particulate activated carbon and/or activated carbon particles in particular, preferably in the form of activated carbon particles in granular form (granular carbon) or in spherical form (spherical carbon); (ii) zeolites, in particular natural and/or synthetic zeolites; (iii) molecular sieves, in particular zeolite molecular sieves, synthetic molecular sieves and/or in particular synthetic molecular sieves based on carbon, oxides and/or glasses; (iv) metal oxide and/or metal particles; (v) ion-exchange resins, in particular polydisperse and/or monodisperse cation and/or anion exchangers, in particular of the gel type and/or macroporous type; (vi) anorganic oxides, in particular silicon dioxides, silica gels and/or aluminum oxides; (vii) porous organic polymers and/or porous organic-anorganic hybrid polymers and/or organometallic framework materials, in particular MOFs (metal organic frameworks), COFs (covalent organic frameworks), ZIFs (zeolite imidazolate frameworks), POMs (polymer organic materials) and/or OFCs; (viii) mineral granulates; (ix) clathrates; and (x) mixtures and/or combinations thereof.

[0129] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the adsorptive material 14, in particular the adsorptive material 14 of the adsorption layer 12, can be formed from or composed of preferably particulate activated carbon or activated carbon particles, preferably in the form of activated carbon particles in granular form (granular carbon) or in spherical form (spherical carbon).

[0130] In general, the adsorptive materials 14 used can be present in the form of discrete particles or in particulate form (cf. FIGS. 3A through 3D).

[0131] The respective grain or particle-forming materials of the adsorptive materials 14 used according to the invention are well-known per se to the person skilled in the art, and the person skilled in the art is capable at any time of selecting and coordinating the respective adsorptive material 14 in order to impart special properties, in particular adsorption properties, to the inner shoe material 3 or the functional footwear unit 1 according to the invention.

[0132] Reference can be made to the following explanations with respect to activated carbons that can be used according to the invention. Moreover, for further details on the MOF materials than can be used in the same manner according to the invention, reference can be made in particular to the international patent application WO 2009/096184 A1 and the parallel German patent application DE 10 2008005218 A1, the respective disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0133] As mentioned above, the adsorptive material 14, in particular the adsorptive material 14 of the adsorption layer 12, can be configured in grain or particle form.

[0134] With respect to the diameter or mean diameter D.sub.50 of the adsorptive materials 14 used according to the invention, said diameter of the adsorptive material 14, in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon or the activated carbon particles, should be in the range of 0.005 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably in the range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, preferably in the range of 0.015 mm to 0.5 mm, particularly preferably in the range of 0.02 mm to 0.3 mm, and most particularly preferably in the range of 0.03 mm to 0. 15 mm. In this connection, the mean diameter, in particular the mean diameter D50, of the adsorptive material 14, in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon and/or the activated carbon particles, should be in the range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, in particular in the range of 0.02 mm to 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.03 mm to 0.5 mm, particularly preferably in the range of 0.04 mm to 0.4 mm, and most particularly preferably in the range of 0.04 mm to 0.2 mm.

[0135] The corresponding particle sizes can be determined in particular based on the method according to ASTM D2862-97/04. In addition, the above-mentioned values can be determined by determination methods based on sieve analysis, x-ray diffraction, laser diffractometry, or the like. The respective determination methods are well-known per se to the person skilled in the art, so that no further explanations in this connection are required.

[0136] In general, the adsorptive material 14, in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon or the activated carbon particles, can be used in an amount in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2, in particular 10 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2, preferably 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 20 g/m.sup.2 to 75 g/m.sup.2, or can be present in the corresponding amounts in the adsorption layer 12 or inner shoe material 3. In this connection, the footwear unit 1 as such or the inner shoe material 3, in particular the adsorption layer 12 of the inner shoe material 3, can contain the adsorptive material 14, in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon or the activated carbon particles, in an amount in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2, in particular 10 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2, preferably 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 20 g/m.sup.2 to 75 g/m.sup.2.

[0137] With respect to the activated carbon or activated carbon particles as such used or applied in the context of the present invention (referred to here only as activated carbon), the parameters indicated with respect to the underlying activated carbon or activated carbon particles are determined by standardized or explicitly stated determination methods or by determination methods known per se to the person skilled in the art. In particular, the parameters indicated with respect to characterization of porosity, pore size distribution, and other adsorption properties are generally based on the respective nitrogen sorption isotherms of the activated carbon or measured products in question. In addition, pore distribution, in particular with respect to the content of micropores based on total pore volume, can also be determined based on DIN 66135-1.

[0138] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, according to which the adsorptive material 14 is used in the form of activated carbon or activated carbon particles, the activated carbon can be obtainable by carbonization and subsequent activation of a starting material that is synthetic or not based on natural substances, in particular based on organic polymers. In this connection, the preferably particulate activated carbon can be obtained from a starting material based on organic polymers, in particular based on sulfonated organic polymers, preferably based on divinylbenzene cross-linked polystyrene, and preferably based on styrene/divinylbenzene copolymers, in particular by carbonization and subsequent activation of the starting material. In this respect, the content of divinylbenzene in the starting material can be in the range of 1 wt % to 20 wt %, in particular 1 wt % to 15 wt %, preferably 1.5 wt % to 12.5 wt %, and preferably 2 wt % to 10 wt % based on the starting material. According to the invention, the starting material can in particular be an ion-exchange resin containing sulfonated or sulfonic acid groups, in particular of the gel type.

[0139] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a polymer-based spherical activated carbon PBSAC) can be used as the preferably particulate activated carbon. In particular, the activated carbon can be a polymer-based spherical activated carbon (PBSAC). Such activated carbons are characterized by outstanding adsorption properties with respect to the aforementioned toxic or harmful substances and outstanding mechanical properties, such as high material hardness and abrasion hardness.

[0140] In principle, the activated carbon used can in this case be obtained by known methods of the prior art: In particular, for this purpose, spherical sulfonated organic polymers, in particular based on divinylbenzene cross-linked polystyrene, can be carbonized and then activated to obtain the relevant activated carbon, in particular as mentioned above. For further details in this connection, reference can be made for example to the documents DE 4328219 A1, DE 4304026 A1, DE 19600237 A1 and EP 1918022 A1 or to the parallel document U.S. Pat. No. 7,737,038 B2, which belongs to the same patent family, the respective contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0141] In the context of the present invention, the activated carbons or activated carbon particles used are generally commercially obtainable or in common commercial use. In particular, activated carbons that are distributed for example by Blucher GmbH, Erkrath, Germany, or AdsorTech GmbH, Premnitz, Germany can be used.

[0142] In the context of the present invention, it has been found to be advantageous if the preferably particulate activated carbon used according to the invention has a further specified total pore volume, in particular a total pore volume according to Gurvich, as discussed below. In particular, the preferably particulate activated carbon can have a total pore volume, in particular a total pore volume according to Gurvich, in the range of 0.3 cm.sup.3/g to 3.8 cm.sup.3/g, in particular in the range of 0.4 cm.sup.3/g to 3.5 cm.sup.3/g, preferably in the range of 0.5 cm.sup.3/g to 3 cm.sup.3/g, particularly preferably in the range of 0.6 cm.sup.3/g to 2.5 cm.sup.3/g, and most particularly preferably in the range of 0.5 cm.sup.3/g to 1.5 cm.sup.3/g.

[0143] In particular, at least 65%, in particular at least 70%, preferably at least 75%, preferably at least 80%, of the total pore volume, in particular the total pore volume according to Gurvich, of the preferably particulate activated carbon can be composed of pore diameters of at most 50 nm, in particular micro- and/or mesopores.

[0144] In particular, 50% to 95%, in particular 60% to 90%, preferably 70% to 85%, of the total pore volume, in particular the total pore volume according to Gurvich, of the preferably particulate activated carbon can be composed of pores with diameters of at most 50 nm, in particular micro- and/or mesopores.

[0145] In addition, 1% to 60%, in particular 5% to 50%, preferably 10% to 40%, preferably 15% to 35%, of the total pore volume, in particular the total pore volume according to Gurvich, of the preferably particulate activated carbon can be made up by pores with diameters of more than 2 nm, in particular meso- and/or macropores.

[0146] In particular, the preferably particulate activated carbon can have a pore volume composed of pores with diameters of at most 2 nm (i.e. 2 nm), in particular micropore volumes according to carbon black in the range of 0.05 cm.sup.3/g to 2.5 cm.sup.3/g, in particular 0.15 cm.sup.3/g to 2 cm.sup.3/g, preferably 0.3 cm.sup.3/g to 1.5 cm.sup.3/g. In this connection, 15% to 98%, in particular 25% to 95%, and preferably 35% to 90% of the total pore volume of the activated carbon can be composed of pores with diameters of at most 2 nm, in particular micropores.

[0147] The determination of total pore volume according to Gurvich is a measurement/determination method well known per se to the person skilled in the art in this field. For further details with respect to the determination of the total pore volume according to Gurvich, reference can be made for example to L. Gurvich (1915), J. Phys. Chem. Soc. Russ. 47, 805, and S. Lowell et al., Characterization of Porous Solids and Powders: Surface Area Pore Size and Density, Kluwer Academic Publishers, Article Technology Series, pages 111 ff. In particular, the pore volume of the activated carbon based on the Gurvich rule can be determined according to the formula V.sub.p=W.sub.a/l, wherein Wa denotes the adsorbed amount of an underlying adsorbate and l denotes the density of the adsorbate used (cf. also Formula 8.20) according to page 111, chapter 8.4. of S. Lowell et al.).

[0148] The determination method according to carbon black is known per se to the person skilled in the art, wherein reference can additionally be made for further details on determination of pore surface area and pore volume according to carbon black for example to R. W. Magee, Evaluation of the External Surface Area of Carbon Black by Nitrogen Adsorption, presented at the Meeting of the Rubber Division of the American Chem. Soc., October 1994, reported e.g. in: Quantachrome Instruments, AUTOSORB-1, AS1 WinVersion 1.50, Operating Manual, OM, 05061, Quantachrome Instruments 2004, Florida, USA, pp. 71 ff. In particular, the evaluation in this respect can be carried out by means of the t plot method.

[0149] As determination of specific surface area according to BET is generally known per se to the person skilled in the art, no further details thereon need to be presented. All indicated BET surface area values relate to determination according to ASTM D6556-04. In the context of the present inventionin general and in the absence of specific indications to the contrarythe so-called multi-point BET determination method (MP-BET) is used for determination of BET surface area in a partial pressure range p/po of 0.05 to 0.1.

[0150] For further details on determination of the BET surface or the BET method, reference can be made to the above-mentioned ASTM D6556-04 and to Rompp's Chemistry Lexicon, 10.sup.th Edition, Georg Thieme Publishing House, Stuttgart/New York, key word: BET method, including the literature cited therein, and to Winnacker-Kchler O.sup.rd Edition), Vol. 7, pp. 93 ff. and Z. Anal. Chem. 238, pp. 187 through 193 (1968).

[0151] In the context of the present invention, the term micropores refers to pores with diameters of less than 2 nm, while the term mesopores refers to pores with diameters in the range of 2 nm (i.e. 2 nm inclusively) to 50 nm inclusively, and the term macropores refers to pores with diameters of more than 50 nm (i.e. >50 nm).

[0152] Moreover, the preferably particulate activated carbon can have a specific BET surface area in the range of 600 m.sup.2/g to 4,000 m.sup.2/g, in particular 800 m.sup.2/g to 3,500 m.sup.2/g, preferably 1,000 m.sup.2/g to 3,000 m.sup.2/g, particularly preferably 1,200 m.sup.2/g to 2,750 m.sup.2/g, and most particularly preferably 1,300 m.sup.2/g to 2,500 m.sup.2/g.

[0153] In particular, the preferably particulate activated carbon can have a surface area composed of pores with diameters of at most 2 nm, in particular micropores, in the range of 400 to 3,500 m.sup.2/g, in particular 500 to 3,000 m.sup.2/g, preferably 600 to 2,500 m.sup.2/g, and preferably 700 to 2,000 m.sup.2/g.

[0154] The preferably particulate activated carbon that is usable according to the invention can have a surface area comprising pores with diameters in the range of 2 nm to 50 nm, in particular mesopores, in the range of 200 to 2,000 m.sup.2/g, in particular 300 to 1,900 m.sup.2/g, preferably 400 to 1.800 m.sup.2/g, and preferably 500 to 1,700 m.sup.2/g. In addition, the preferably particulate activated carbon, as it can be used in the context of the present invention, can have a mean pore diameter in the range of 0.1 nm to 55 nm, in particular 0.2 nm to 50 nm, preferably 0.5 nm to 45 nm, and preferably 1 nm to 40 nm.

[0155] In the context of the present invention, it can also be provided that the adsorptive material 14, in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon, is impregnated with at least one catalyst. For this purpose, copper, silver, cadmium, platinum, palladium, zinc and/or mercury ions can preferably be used as catalytic enzymes and/or metal ions. The amount of the catalyst can be 0.05 to 12 wt %, preferably 1 to 10 wt %, and particularly preferably 2 to 8 wt % based on the weight of the adsorptive material 14, in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon. By equipping the adsorptive material 14 with a catalyst, auto-regeneration of the adsorptive material 14 can be improved, which results in prolonged useful life or to later depletion of the adsorptive material 14 during wear or use.

[0156] According to the invention, it can additionally be provided that, as shown in FIGS. 3A through 3D, the adsorption layer 12 comprises at least one carrier 13. In this case, the carrier 13 can be arranged on the side of the adsorption layer 12 facing the inner layer 10. In particular, the carrier 13 can be arranged between the inner layer 10 and the adsorptive material 14. The carrier 13 in particular is a textile sheet material, preferably an air-permeable textile material, in particular a woven fabric, knit fabric, crocheted fabric, laid fabric, web or nonwoven or textile composite, preferably a woven fabric. In this connection, the carrier 13 can have a weight per unit area in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 250 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 200 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2. The carrier 13 can serve in particular for fastening or fixation of the adsorptive material 14, as explained in the following. In this manner, the stability of the inner shoe material 3 can be further increased. In addition, wearing comfort is increased, as the additional carrier 13 also takes on the properties of a lining material. In this connection, the use of an additional carrier 13 is advantageous, for example in the use of a particulate adsorptive material with a relatively large particle diameter. In general, however, the adsorptive material 14 can also be fixed in place on the inner layer or the carrier material 10, in particular if a carrier 13 is provided.

[0157] As mentioned above, it can be provided according to the invention that the adsorptive material 14, in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon, is fastened on the inner layer or the carrier material 10 or on the carrier 13. In this connection, the adsorptive material 14 should be arranged on the side of the inner layer facing the outer layer 11 or on the carrier material 10 or the carrier 13. In the context of the present invention, it can also be provided in principle that both sides of the inner layer or the carrier material 10 or the carrier 13 are equipped with the adsorptive material 14, even though this is less preferable.

[0158] As shown in FIGS. 3A through 3D, it can be provided in the context of the present invention that fastening or fixation of the adsorptive material 14, in particular the preferably particulate activated carbon, is carried out by means of at least one adhesive layer 15a, 15b. In this connection, the adsorption layer 12 can comprise at least one adhesive layer 15a, 15b for fastening or fixation of the adsorptive material 14. In this connection, it is preferred according to the invention if the adhesive layer 15a, 15b is arranged between the adsorptive material 14 and the inner layer or the carrier material 10 or the carrier 13. The adhesive layer 15a, 15b is generally an adhesive layer used for fixation of the in particular particulate adsorptive material 14 onto the corresponding layers 10, 13.

[0159] The adhesive layer in question 15a, 15b can in particular be a discontinuously and/or air-permeably configured adhesive layer. Because of the air permeability of the adhesive layer 15a, 15b as well, wearing comfort is further improved. In addition, the adsorptive material used according to the invention 14 is optimally accessible by the toxic or harmful substances to be adsorbed.

[0160] In this connection, the adhesive layer 15a, 15b can be configured in the form of an adhesive layer 15a that in particular is configured to be air-permeable and/or discontinuous and/or punctate or non-coherent or in the form of an adhesive layer 15a having discrete adhesive clumps, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3C. In this connection, the adhesive clumps can preferably be applied to the corresponding layer 10, 13 in the form of a regular pattern or grid. Because of the discontinuous or punctate and non-cohesive application of the adhesive layer 15a, air permeability is high overall, and at the same time, the layer material as a whole is highly flexible.

[0161] In this connection, it is preferred according to the invention that at least 50%, in particular at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, particularly preferably at least 75%, and most particularly preferably at least 80% of the carrier material 10 or the carrier 13, based on the total area of the inner layer or the carrier material 10 or the carrier 13, is impinged upon by the adhesive or adhesive agent constituting the adhesive layer 15a, 15b or by the adsorptive material 14, based on the total area of the inner layer or the carrier material 10 or the carrier 13.

[0162] In the context of the present invention, it can also be provided that the adhesive layer 15a, 15b is configured in the form of an in particular air-permeable, flat and/or continuously and/or coherently configured adhesive layer 15b. In this connection, reference can be made in particular to the views shown in FIG. 3B and FIG. 3D. In particular, the adhesive layer 15b can be configured in the form of an in particular air-permeable foam material.

[0163] Further with respect to the adhesive layer, said layer can in particular be an air-permeably configured adhesive layer 15b based on a dried or cured, in particular cross-linked, broken adhesive polymer foam. For this purpose, the broken adhesive polymer foam can comprise a number of dried or cured, in particular cross-linked, destroyed or burst and/or collapsed foam bubbles. In addition, the broken adhesive polymer foam, in particular the dried or cured, in particular cross-linked, destroyed or burst and/or collapsed foam bubbles of the broken adhesive foam, can comprise numerous destroyed or broken or collapsed walls or projections composed of an adhesive polymer. As a result of the configuration of the adhesive layer 15b in the form of the above-mentioned foam material, a corresponding air permeability is ensured, with simultaneously higher accessibility of the adsorptive material 14. The provision of the adhesive layer 15b based on the above-mentioned foam system also results in improved overall wearing comfort of the inner shoe material 3 and thus the footwear unit 1 according to the invention.

[0164] In order to produce the above-described adhesive layer 15b in the form of a broken foam, the method can be used for example of applying a foamed solution or dispersion of the underlying adhesive polymer to the corresponding carrier 10, 13, after which the adsorptive material 14 in particular is applied or caused to adhere, in the form of the particulate activated carbon, to the adhesive or adhesive agent layer 15b, followed by drying or curing of the adhesive polymer, accompanied by breaking of the foam produced from the foamed solution or dispersion, so that the adhesive layer 15b is obtained or present as a dried or cured, in particular cross-linked, broken adhesive polymer foam.

[0165] Also with respect to the adhesive layer 15a, 15b, this can be applied to the inner layer or the carrier material 10 or the carrier 13 in an amount in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 80 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 20 g/m.sup.2 to 60 g/m.sup.2. In particular, the adhesive layer 15a, 15b can have a weight per unit area in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of 10 g/m.sup.2 to 80 g/m.sup.2, and preferably in the range of 20 g/m.sup.2 to 60 g/m.sup.2.

[0166] In the context of the present invention, a number of adhesive agents or adhesives are suitable for configuring the adhesive layer in question 15a, 15b:

[0167] For configuration of the adhesive layer 15a, 15b in the form of a non-coherently configured adhesive layer 15a in particular based on application in the form of discrete adhesive clumps, particularly suitable materials are thickened plastic dispersions, hot-melt adhesives, or reactive substances, wherein in particular these can be polyurethane-based one or two-component systems, preferably prepolymeric diisocyanates, which in particular undergo crosslinking via di- or polyfunctional amines or alcohols.

[0168] With respect to the embodiment according to which the adhesive layer 15a, 15b is configured in the form of a continuously or coherently configured adhesive layer 15b, in particular in the form of an air-permeable foam material, corresponding adhesive agents or adhesives that are generally suitable for the adhesive layer 15b or for the adhesive polymer include adhesive agents or adhesives selected from the group of polyacrylate (PA), polymethacrylate (PMA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyurethane (PU) and silicones and mixtures or combinations of at least two of the above-mentioned compounds, preferably polyurethane (PU). In particular, the adhesive agent or adhesive for the adhesive layer 15a, 15b, in particular the adhesive polymer, can be a polyurethane (PU).

[0169] According to the invention, it can also be provided that the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, comprises a spacing layer 16 (cf. FIG. 3A through 3D). In particular, the first spacing layer 16 can be arranged between the inner layer or the carrier material 10 and the adsorption layer 12. In particular, the spacing layer 16 can be arranged between the inner layer or the carrier material 10 and the optionally present carrier 13 of the adsorption layer 12. In this case, the spacing layer 16 can be configured as a web (nonwoven), an in particular air-permeable foam layer or a textile sheet material, in particular a woven fabric or knit fabric, and preferably a knit fabric. In particular, the spacing layer 16 can have a weight per unit area in the range of 5 g/m.sup.2 to 150 g/m.sup.2, in particular 10 g/m.sup.2 to 125 g/m.sup.2, preferably 15 g/m.sup.2 to 100 g/m.sup.2, and preferably 20 g/m.sup.2 to 75 g/m.sup.2. In particular, the spacing layer 16 can absorb or attenuate mechanical stresses and thus protect or stabilize the adsorption layer 12. In addition, the additional spacing layer 16 makes it possible to further improve wearing comfort, in particular wearing feel.

[0170] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is also provided in the context of the present invention that the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, comprises no in particular air-impermeable (barrier) layers or no in particular air-impermeable membrane, in particular no membrane impermeable to chemical or biological or nuclear toxic or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In this manner, the air permeability of the inner shoe material 3 in particular is ensured, which is conducive to wearing comfort. In particular, it is also possible to dispense with equipping the inner shoe material 3 with a membrane against the backdrop of the design according to the invention, according to which the article of footwear 2 as such can already be equipped with a membrane or as such already provides a protective function, as mentioned above.

[0171] In the context of the present invention, however, it possible in principle, even though this is less preferable, to equip the inner shoe material 3 with a corresponding membrane, in particular if particularly strong protection against the toxins or harmful substances in question is to be provided.

[0172] It can thus be provided in the context of the present invention that the inner shoe material 3, in particular the multilayer structure 3a or the laminate 3a or the multilayer material 3a, comprises at least one membrane 17, as shown in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In this connection, the membrane 17 can be arranged for example between the adsorption layer 12 and the outer layer 11, as also shown in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In this manner, the burden on the adsorption layer 12 or the adsorptive material 14 can be relieved. In general, the membrane 17 can be arranged between the inner layer or the carrier material 10 and the outer layer 11.

[0173] In this case, the membrane 17 can be configured to be water-impermeable and/or air-impermeable. In particular, the membrane 17 can be configured to be breathable, in particular water vapor-permeable. In addition, the membrane 17 can be at least essentially impermeable to chemical or biological or nuclear toxic or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents. Similarly, the membrane 17 can be a continuous, in particular closed or possibly microporous membrane 17. In addition, the thickness of the membrane 17 can be in the range of 1 to 500 m, in particular 1 to 250 m, preferably 1 m to 100 m, preferably 1.5 m to 50 m, particularly preferably 2.5 m to 30 m, and most particularly preferably 5 m to 25 m.

[0174] In particular, the membrane 17 can have a swellability or a water absorption capacity of at most 35%, in particular at most 25%, based on the net weight of the membrane 17. In addition, the membrane 17 should comprise no or essentially no strongly hydrophilic groups, in particular no hydroxyl groups. Moreover, the membrane 17 should comprise weakly hydrophilic groups, in particular polyether groups. Moreover, the membrane 17 should be configured to be extensible or stretchable in at least one direction, in particular in the longitudinal direction and/or width direction, to at least 10%, in particular to at least 20%, and preferably to at least 30% based on the length and/or width of the membrane 17 in the unstretched and/or non-stretched state.

[0175] Further with respect to the membrane 17 of the shoe material, said membrane can comprise or be composed of a plastic or a polymer. In this connection, the plastic or the polymer can be selected from the group of polyurethanes, polyether amides, polyester amides, polyether esters, polytetrafluoroethylenes and/or cellulose-based polymers and derivatives of the above-mentioned compounds, preferably polyether esters and polytetrafluoroethylenes. Moreover, the membrane 17 can be applied, in particular laminated or layered onto, a membrane carrier layer (not shown). In this case, the membrane carrier layer in particular can be an air-permeable two-dimensional textile sheet material, in particular selected from the group of woven fabrics, knit fabrics, crocheted fabrics, laid fabrics, textile composites and non-woven fabrics.

[0176] The membrane 17 can have a water vapor permeability at 25 C. and a thickness of 50 m of at least 12.5 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h, in particular at least 17.5 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h, and preferably at least 20 l/m.sup.2 per 24 h or even more. In addition, the membrane 17 can have a water vapor transmission resistance Ret under stationary conditions, measured according to DIN 31 093:1993 of February 1994 or according to international standard ISO 11 092 and at 35 C., of at most 25 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, in particular at most 20 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, and preferably at most 13 (m.sup.2.Math.Pa)/W, with a thickness of 50 m.

[0177] For further explanations on the membrane 17 provided for the inner shoe material 3 according to this less preferable embodiment of the present invention, reference can be made to the above explanations of the membrane 7 as it can be used for the article of footwear 2.

[0178] Further with respect to the footwear unit 1 according to the invention, the inner shoe material 3 can be configured in multiple pieces or parts. In other words, a plurality of (surface) sections in particular of the above-described multilayer structure 3a or laminate 3a can be used for the inner shoe material 3, said sections being connected to one another for configuration of the inner shoe material 3. In this manner, the fit of the inner shoe material can be correspondingly optimized. In particular, the individual or respective (surface) sections of the inner shoe material 3 can be connected to one another by means of sewing, gluing, or welding. In particular, the individual (surface) sections of the inner shoe material 3 can be connected to one another via connecting areas 22a, 22b, 22c, in particular seams, preferably flat seams (cf. FIG. 4).

[0179] As also shown in FIG. 4, it can be provided according to an embodiment of the invention that the sole area 18 or the instep area 19 or the toe area 20 and/or the heel or ankle joint area 21 of the inner shoe material 3 is configured to be free of bindings or seams. This improves the wearing comfort of the inner shoe material 3, in particular with respect to minimization of pressure points or the like.

[0180] In order to further improve wearing comfort, in particular to reduce pressure points, it can also be provided that the connecting areas of the article of footwear 2 and the connecting areas 22a, 22b, 22c of the inner shoe material 3 are arranged such that that during wear or use of the footwear unit 1, the respective connecting areas of the article of footwear 2 on the one hand and of the inner shoe material 3 on the other at least essentially do not overlap or at least essentially are not arranged at opposite sites or areas of the article of footwear 2 and the inner shoe material 3 during wear or use of the footwear unit 1. Accordingly, the respective connecting areas of seams should not be present or positioned at the same or mutually corresponding sites of the article of footwear 2 and of the inner shoe material 3.

[0181] In the context of the present invention, it can also be provided that the inner shoe material 3 comprises at least one contact or connecting device 4a, in particular for preferably sectional and/or detachable or non-permanent and/or sealing connection or in particular for sectional or detachable and/or non-permanent or sealing contact of the inner shoe material 3 with the article of footwear 2. In this connection, the contact or connecting device 4a can be positioned on the shaft 24 of the inner shoe material 3, in particular on the opening area of the shaft 24, or connected to the shaft 24 of the inner shoe material 3. Reference can be made in particular to FIG. 1 in this case.

[0182] In this connection, it can also be provided according to the invention that the article of footwear 2 comprises at least one contact or connecting device 4b. The contact or connecting device 4b can also be provided in particular for preferably sectional and/or detachable or non-permanent and/or sealing connection or in particular for sectional or detachable and/or non-permanent or sealing contact of the article of footwear 2 with the inner shoe material 3. In this connection, the contact or connecting device 4b can be positioned on the shaft 25 of the article of footwear 2, in particular on the opening area of the shaft 25, or connected to the shaft 25 of the article of footwear 2. Reference can be made to FIG. 1 in this case as well.

[0183] In this connection, the contact or connecting devices 4a, 4b, in particular during wear or use of the footwear unit 1, can be arranged or positioned at areas or sites that correspond or are opposite to or in contact with one another of the inner shoe material 3 on the one hand and of the article of footwear 2 on the other, as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1.

[0184] Moreover, with respect to the contact or connecting devices 4a, 4b, these can for example be configured in the form of a rubber seal, a Velcro fastener, a zipper or the like. In the context of the present invention, the situation here is such that in particular, during wear or use, the contact or connecting devices in question 4a, 4b form a non-permanent or detachable connection, in particular in the area of the shaft of the article of footwear 2 or the inner shoe material 3, in particular in the opening area of the inner shoe material 3 and of the article of footwear 2. In this manner, secure positioning of the inner shoe material 3 in the article of footwear 2 can be ensured, and the penetration of toxic or harmful substances, in particular in the area between the inner shoe material 3 and the article of footwear 2, can also be prevented, thus making it possible to further improve protective performance.

[0185] As shown in FIG. 4, according to a further embodiment, the inner shoe material 3 can comprise a preferably elastic or reversibly stretchable closing band 26. In this case, the closing band 26 can be connected to the shaft 24 of the inner shoe material 3 or to the contact or connecting device 4a of the inner shoe material 3, preferably via a connection 22c, in particular a seam. The closing band 26 can be located in particular in the opening area of the shaft 24 of the inner shoe material 3. In this connection, it can for example be provided that the contact or connecting device 4a of the inner shoe material 3 is arranged or positioned between the closing band 26 and the shaft of the inner shoe material 3.

[0186] Moreover, it can also be provided in the context of the present invention that the closing band 26 and/or the contact or connecting device 4a, in particular the closing band 26 of the inner shoe material 3, is configured in particular for detachable or in particular non-permanent or non-fixed connection with a hose or a protective suit or the like.

[0187] As mentioned above, in the context of the present invention, a footwear unit 1 is provided with an extremely strong protective function against the above-mentioned toxic or harmful substances, which in particular has the following protective properties:

[0188] The footwear unit 1 can have a barrier action against harmful or toxic substances, in particular chemical warfare agents, in particular bis[2-chlorethyl]sulfide, determined according to method 2.2 CRDC-SP-84010, of at most 4 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, in particular at most 3.5 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, preferably at most 3.0 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, preferably at most 2.5 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, particularly preferably at most 2.25 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h, and most particularly preferably at most 2 g/cm.sup.2 per 24 h.

[0189] In summary, a footwear unit 1 is provided according to the invention which combines the diametrically opposed properties of a strong protective function against toxic or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, on the one hand and high wearing comfort on the other.

[0190] As mentioned above, based on selective combination of the article of footwear 2 and the inner shoe material 3 to obtain the footwear unit 1 according to the invention, the respective components can be further optimized so that in this manner, the special properties with respect to wearing comfort and application properties or manageability can be improved while simultaneously providing a strong protective function: as described above, it can thus be provided that the article of footwear 2 contains no more adsorptive material or no adsorbents, wherein in particular the inner layer 6 of the article of footwear 2 can also be further reduced or even dispensed with, as the properties of a lining material can be taken over by the inner shoe material 3 in particular. Accordingly, with respect to the inner shoe material 3, one can dispense with the use of a (barrier) membrane, which specifically can be a component of the article of footwear 2, thus making it possible to improve wearing comfort and simultaneously provide a strong protective function.

[0191] According to the invention, it can also be provided that the seams of the article of footwear 2 (not shown) and the seams 22a, 22b, 22c of the inner shoe material 3 do not run over one another so that pressure points are minimized.

[0192] In addition, it can be provided according to the invention that as mentioned above, the inner layer 6 or the inner lining of the article of footwear 2 is not thicker than necessary, as the inner shoe material 3 already contributes to or constitutes the lining.

[0193] In particular, it can be provided in the context of the present invention that the materials and in particular the surface of the article of footwear 2 and the seams and other compounds or components in particular of the article of footwear 2, for example with respect to the membrane 7 of the article of footwear 2, are already selected or configured such that penetration or permeation in particular of chemical warfare agents, TICs, biological harmful or toxic substances and the like is prevented by the article of footwear 2 or minimized to the extent that the adsorptive material or the adsorption layer 12 of the inner shoe material 3 present in particular in the form of a sock or a stocking, complementarily to the article of footwear 2, provides complete security or complete protection of the wearer. Accordingly, the article of footwear 2 on the one hand and the inner shoe material 3 of the footwear unit 1 according to the invention on the other complement each other with respect to their protective performance, such that the overall protective performance results from the combination of the article of footwear 2 and the inner shoe material 3 of the footwear unit 1 according to the invention.

[0194] As mentioned above in particular, the design according to the invention also has the following advantages: [0195] In particular, the inner shoe material 3 can be regenerated, for example by washing, but can also be separately disposed of, independently of the article of footwear 2, wherein the article of footwear can then be further used. [0196] In addition, an article of footwear 2 that has already been broken in can have its protective function fully restored by replacing the inner shoe material 3, so that the wearer does not have to switch to a boot that has not been broken in. In addition, inner shoe materials 3 that have been pre-damaged by wear, in particular by mechanical forces, can be easily replaced. [0197] Moreover, the concept according to the invention takes into account the respective durability or storage lives of the article of footwear 2 on the one hand and the inner shoe material 3 on the other, as the durability or storage time of the article of footwear 2, in particular resulting from limited duration of the sole connection, is generally less than that of the inner shoe material 3. In this connection, it is also at most necessary, for example, to simply insert or weld the inner shoe material 3 into a protective shell in order to protect the adsorptive material 14.

[0198] Consequently, it is at most necessary simply to renew or replace the article of footwear 2 after expiration of the possible shorter shelf life. [0199] As mentioned above, the present invention is based on a modular concept, according to which for example full leather or partial leather boots can be combined with a respectively adapted inner shoe material 3 depending on the requirements of the corresponding application or use of the footwear unit.

[0200] Moreover, further subject matter of the present inventionaccording to a further aspect of the present inventionis a method for equipping an article of footwear 2, in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, with an in particular modular protective function against radioactive toxic or harmful substances and/or against chemical or biological toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein an inner shoe material 3 containing at least one adsorptive material 14, in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, and the article of footwear 2 are combined as functionally coherent or functionally mutually associated, but disconnected or separate, in particular spatially separated components, in particular in order to form a functional protective clothing unit 1.

[0201] The present invention also relatesaccording to a further aspect of the present inventionto a method for providing a functional footwear unit 1, preferably with an in particular modular protective function against radioactive toxic or harmful substances and/or against chemical or biological toxic and/or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein an inner shoe material 3 containing at least one adsorptive material 14, in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, and an article of footwear 2, in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, are combined as components that are functionally coherent or functionally mutually associated, but are disconnected or separate, particularly spatially.

[0202] Moreover, the present invention relatesaccording to another further aspect of the present inventionto a method for prolonging or increasing the protective function of an article of footwear 2, in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, against radioactive toxic or harmful substances and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein an inner shoe material 3 containing at least one adsorptive material 14, in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, and the article of footwear 2 are combined as components that are functionally coherent or functionally mutually associated, but are disconnected or separate, particularly spatially.

[0203] Further subject matter of the present inventionaccording to another further aspect of the present inventionis the use of an inner shoe material 3 having at least one adsorptive material 14, in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, for equipping a functional footwear unit 1 with an in particular modular protective function against radioactive toxic or harmful substances and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein the inner shoe material 3 and an article of footwear 2 are combined as components that are functionally coherent or functionally mutually associated, but are disconnected or separate, particularly spatially.

[0204] Moreover, subject matter of the present inventionaccording to a further aspect of the present inventionis also the use of an inner shoe material 3 having at least one adsorptive material 14, in particular in the form of a sock or preferably a stocking, for prolonging or increasing the protective function of an article of footwear 2, in particular in the form of a shoe or preferably a boot, against radioactive toxic or harmful substances and/or against chemical and/or biological toxic or harmful substances, in particular warfare agents, wherein the inner shoe material 3 and the article of footwear 2 are combined as components that are functionally coherent or functionally mutually associated, but are disconnected or separate, particularly spatially.

[0205] With respect to further embodiments and configurations of the present invention, reference can also be made based on the above-described aspects to the explanations of the first aspect of the invention, which concerns the functional footwear unit 1 according to the invention, which shall apply correspondingly.

[0206] Further embodiments, changes, variations, modifications, particularities, and advantages of the present invention are readily obvious to and implementable by the person skilled in the art on reading the description without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0207] The present invention is illustrated by the following examples, which, however, by no means limit the present invention.

EXAMPLES

[0208] Various foot coverings or footwear units are prepared and investigated below with respect to their protective function against toxic or harmful substances (here specifically: mustard gas, HD). In this respect, the following materials are used:

[0209] a) a material based on a conventional leather boot, which comprises leather as an outer layer or upper material and an underlying lining layer, wherein the underlying material contains neither an adsorptive material nor a barrier layer in the form of a membrane (comparison material A);

[0210] b) a material based on a leather boot with an integrated adsorptive material in the form of particulate activated carbon; the material comprises leather as an external or upper material and an adsorption layer arranged thereunder, wherein the adsorptive material is in the form of a particulate activated carbon arranged between two textile layers; the material is in the form of a composite with permanent fixation of the respective layers, wherein the particulate activated carbon has a mean particle diameter of approximately 0.3 mm and is fastened with an application amount of approximately 80 g/m.sup.2 using an adhesive agent that is applied in a discontinuous punctate manner (comparison material B);

[0211] c) a material in the form of a functional footwear unit using an article of footwear in the form of a leather boot (leather as an outer or upper material with a textile lining layer arranged thereunder) and a separate air-permeable inner shoe material with an adsorption layer, wherein a particulate activated carbon with a mean particle diameter of approximately 0.3 mm is fastened on a textile inner layer or a carrier material in an application amount of approximately 80 g/m.sup.2 using an adhesive that is applied in a discontinuous-punctate manner and wherein the inner shoe material further comprises a further covering layer, wherein the adsorptive material is arranged between the wearer and the covering layer; the material is thus based on two composite materials arranged on each other in a loose arrangement in the form of the article of footwear on the one hand and the inner shoe on the other (material according to the invention C);

[0212] d) a further material, which corresponds to the material according to the invention C described in section c), with the proviso that the outer layer or the upper material in the form of leather of the article of footwear is additionally provided with an oleophobic or hydrophobic agent or coating (material according to the invention D).

[0213] In the following, the protective function against a toxic or harmful material in the form of mustard gas (in liquid form) is determined by means of a standardized double flow test. For this purpose, the above-mentioned test materials are clamped in the form of respective sections or samples (respective sample area 10 cm.sup.2) into a test cell above a PE membrane (10 m) that simulates human skin. The substance to be tested in the form of mustard gas is applied with a cannula to the surface of the respective test material in liquid form and in a specified volume and allowed to act, and it is then impinged upon by an air flow above and below the test material, wherein the substance to be tested is applied to the respective leather layer materials. The samples according to comparison materials A and B have the respective composite or layer structure with the respective solidly attached layers, while the materials according to the invention C and D respectively are present in the form of a loose arrangement of the footwear material on the inner shoe material, wherein the footwear material on the one hand and the inner shoe material on the other are both solid composites, as discussed above.

[0214] The cumulative penetration values are then determined by means of gas chromatography (relative humidity 80%, temperature 30 C., 250 ml/min air flow above the test material and 300 ml/min air flow below the material, maximum test duration 24 hr). The present test simulates the diffusion and penetration through the test material of the toxic or harmful substances used, thus simulating the planar contact of the respective materials with the skin, which is specifically simulated by the above-described PE membrane. The results are shown in the following table:

TABLE-US-00001 Penetration Penetration Penetration 0 to 6 hr 6 to 24 hr 0 to 24 hr (g per cm.sup.2) (g per cm.sup.2) (g per cm.sup.2) Comparison 9.1 12.5 21.6 material A Comparison 0.2 0.5 0.7 material B Material not determinable 0.2 0.2 according to the invention C Material not determinable 0.1 0.1 according to the invention D

[0215] The experiments show that the protective action against liquid toxic or harmful substances is significantly improved for the material according to the invention C with the combined arrangement of the material for an article of footwear and the separate inner shoe material, wherein the protective action can be further increased by additionally imparting oleophobic or hydrophobic properties to the material for the article of footwear (material D).

[0216] Without wishing to limit ourselves to this theory, the present measure according to the design of the invention, namely that of arranging the adsorptive material in a separate inner shoe material which is in a loose or non-connected arrangement with respect to the material of the article of footwear, gives rise to a further intermediate layer in the form of an air layer between article of footwear on the one hand and the inner shoe material on the other, which leads to improved convection inside the material and thus to optimized incident flow properties of the adsorptive material and better utilization of the adsorption layer, accompanied by improved adsorption behavior with respect to the toxins or harmful substances in question.

[0217] The materials according to the invention thus show significantly improved protective properties compared to the prior art.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0218] 1 Footwear unit

[0219] 2 Article of footwear

[0220] 2a Multilayer structure/laminate/multilayer material of the article of footwear

[0221] 3 Inner shoe material

[0222] 3a Multilayer structure/laminate/multilayer material of the inner shoe material

[0223] 4a Contact or connecting device of the inner shoe material

[0224] 4b Contact or connecting device of the article of footwear

[0225] 5 Outer and/or covering layer of the article of footwear

[0226] 6 Inner layer of the article of footwear

[0227] 7 Membrane of the article of footwear

[0228] 8 Spacing layer of the article of footwear

[0229] 9a Oleophobic and/or hydrophobic equipment and/or layer of the article of footwear

[0230] 9b Fire and/or flame-retardant equipment and/or layer of the article of footwear

[0231] 10 Inner layer and/or carrier material of the inner shoe material

[0232] 11 Outer layer of the inner shoe material

[0233] 12 Adsorption layer of the inner shoe material

[0234] 13 Carrier of the adsorption layer

[0235] 14 Adsorptive material

[0236] 15a, 15b Adhesive layer of the adsorption layer

[0237] 16 Spacing layer of the inner shoe material

[0238] 17 Membrane of the inner shoe material

[0239] 18 Sole area of the inner shoe material

[0240] 19 Instep area of the inner shoe material

[0241] 20 Toe area of the inner shoe material

[0242] 21 Ankle joint area of the inner shoe material

[0243] 22a, 22b, 22c Connecting areas or seams of the inner shoe material

[0244] 23 Sole of the article of footwear

[0245] 24 Shaft of the inner shoe material

[0246] 25 Shaft of the article of footwear

[0247] 26 Closing band of the inner shoe material