Lightweight, Regenerative MicroPCM Portable Environmental Control Systems (PECS) Garments

This Phase I program will explore the potential for a unique new paraffinic phase change material (PCM) to provide a lightweight, passive portable environmental control system (PECS). This program will also introduce the new concept of PCM self-regeneration within microcapsules attached to or within the textile fibers of the garment. Based upon our PCM materials and technologies developed under twelve previous SBIR programs for DoD, NASA, and NSF and on current Phase III efforts, our design would permit individual Marines to operate effectively for extended time periods over a wide range of temperatures. The non-toxic, paraffinic phase change material will be designed to absorb or release heat at essentially the same temperature, introducing the concept of self-regeneration for extended long-term operation, During Phase I, specific requirements will be defined for a passive PECS garment that would contain no moving or active components. MicroPCMs will be coated onto ro spun within fabric layers within the garment using patented TRDC processes, providing cooling in warm environments as well as heating in cold environments. This effort will include biothermal modeling, laboratory and experimental investigations, and the production of three prototype garments.