Self-Healing Shape Memory Polymer Based Coatings for Protective Garments (1001-966)

In this Phase II program we will build on the promising Phase I results and further develop, optimize and integrate self-healing coatings/membranes into Chemical/Biological (CB) protective clothing to enable autonomous and rapid self-healing of cuts/tears/punctures and provide continuous protection to the warfighters. Current CB garment systems use a layer of absorptive carbon or selectively permeable membranes to protect against chemical and biological threats. It is not uncommon for the garments to be torn or punctured in the field during critical mission operations. This compromises the protection and safety of the Soldier. Typical field repair methods involve patching the tear in the field, which is temporary, ineffective and time consuming, further limiting mission capability. Our technology will apply to a wide variety of CB protective garments. The new fabric will be thin and light so it will have no impact on the comfort of the Soldier.