CBW Ensemble Protective Clothing

Protective clothing technology is a key element in chemical and biological defense, There is a need for a spray-on coating, similar to 3M's Scotch Gard1 which will enhance the barrier properties of standard protective clothing and aid in decontamination. Two approaches have been developed for fabric protection: (1) high surface free energy, low molecular weight resins which are chemically bonded to the fabric and (2) solid film forming polymers which adhere to the fabric. Texas Research Institute Austin Inc. (TRI/Austin) will select and evaluate the best candidates from both classes of barrier resins and develop a coating formulation. The candidates will be tested for permeation, ease of decontamination, ease of application, and fire resistance. TRI/Austin will be assisted by Professor William J. Koros of the University of Texas at Austin, and by TRI/Environmental. TRI/Environmental is the industrial hygiene and environmental testing division of Texas Research International, the parent company of TRI/Austin. TRI/Environmental is an industry-recognized testing lab for protective clothing accredited by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) for commercial and government standards. Professor Koros is an expert in barrier polymer research. TRI/Austin has an excellent background in product development for custom polymer formulations, chemical warfare protective equipment, and other applications. The team assembled for this project has the optimum combination of expertise in barrier coatings, polymer formulation, protective clothing testing, and product development.