Low-Cost, Durable and Non-Toxic Flame-Resistant Fabric Treatment for Combat Uniform

The United States Marine Corps is interested in developing affordable and durable flame resistant fabric treatments for NYCO (50% nylon-50% cotton) fabrics like those used in the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniforms (MCCUU). The proposed treatment must not increase the overall price by more than $4 to $8 per MCCUU. InnoSense LLC (ISL) proposes to introduce a novel method to for attaching non-halogenated compounds to the surface of the current generation MCCUU as flame retardant materials. The proposed treatment will not adversely affect the functionality of any other coating or treatment on the uniform, and will be covalently bonded to the surface of the fabric via traditional dye methods. During Phase I, ISL will develop the processing methodology to produce a cost-effective flame retardant material. ISL will work with Milliken Company to develop a process that will minimize the cost increase over the base MCCUU material. During Phase II, ISL will scale-up the processing methodology to delivery an appropriate quantity of yardage for field testing and product verification. ISL will maintain its ongoing relationship with Milliken to develop a durable, cost-effective flame retardant treatment that will survive daily use while imparting no adverse affects on existing fabric treatments.