Application of Novel Insect Repellent Formulations to Military Clothing

Vector-borne diseases plague hundreds of millions of people worldwide, including U.S. soldiers who operate abroad. To reduce the impact of vector-borne diseases on military operations, the Military employs the arthropod repellent system, which combines a permethrin-treated uniform with the use of DEET repellent on exposed skin. Since the number of permethrin-resistant arthropods is increasing, it is necessary to develop factory-treated uniforms that incorporate insect repellents other than permethrin. TDA Research, Inc. proposes to develop novel, long-lasting non-permethrin insect repellent formulations and the techniques needed to apply them to military clothing. We will test the new formulations on fabric for both the standard Army Combat Uniform (ACU) and the Fire Retardant ACU, which has proved difficult to treat with previous formulations. We will measure the efficacy and durability of the improved treated fabric.