Flexible Composite Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Barrier for the Joint Expeditionary Collective Protection System

The main objective will be to develop a high-performance flexible composite barrier that provides protection from Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) agents and Toxic Industrial Materials (TIMs). UDC will develop a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) coated fabric to provide CBRN agent resistant tents. Fire retardant capability will be achieved by the addition of fire retardant fillers. Seaming methods such as heat sealing will provide high speed and low cost seaming for tentage, shelters and garments. In the Phase I program, we will identify potential films, polymers and fabric to achieve the required performance characteristics. Physical properties will meet or exceed the requirements of LP/P DES 1-94b including strength and water and vapor resistance of end items. UDC will suggest innovative methods for reducing the cost and speeding the processes associated with creating structural water/vapor proof seams parameters including production rates, hydrostatic resistance, physical properties and costs. Additional tests will be conducted to evaluate permeability of the seamed joints. In addition, one or two materials candidates will be fabricated as thin sheets that will be tested for HD, GD and GB agents. At the end of Phase I, a report with results and conclusions, and a Phase II plan, schedule and cost estimate will be submitted.