Kappler SBIR-2012.2-005 Phase II

Kappler proposes to further define and develop a novel fabric composite that when integrated into Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) garments, provides protection to the wearer from multiple threats. The proposed research builds on the strength of the Phase I effort where Kappler validated the base fabric's capability to protect from chemical, biological, and flame hazards, and simultaneously be split into two fabric lines in the same fabric family. The primary objectives for this Phase II SBIR will be to 1. Test and confirm the developed base chemical/biological/FR fabric identified in Phase I to NFPA 1994 Class 2 and other certification requirements, 2. Test a modified version of the base fabric to NFPA 1994 Class 3, & 4 certification requirements 3. To design garments constructed of both fabric items and test to both requirements and 4. To identify and work with a separate company to manufacture the proposed garment resulting in the creation of more jobs and greater revenue to Kappler through fabric sales. Kappler expects to develop, validate, produce, and commercialize a full spectrum novel protective fabric that will be utilized by both first responders and security personnel that oftentimes deal with multiple unknown threats.