Multilayered Electrospun Composite Fibers for Robust and High-Strength Chemical, Biological, and Radiological Protective Suit

Faraday and North Carolina State University (NCSU) will develop a manufacturing process for personal protective equipment (PPE) with protection against chemical, biological, radiological, and/or nuclear (CBRN) threats and improved heat dissipation (relative to JSLIST/MOPP). The competitive advantage of Faraday’s PPE technology is derived from the use of electrospinning to produce multi-layered nanocomposite-polymer fabrics, with each layer providing targeted protection against one or more CBRN threat. In Phase I, we will validate electrospinning of nanocomposite polymer layers that provide chemical, biological, and radiological protection. We will then demonstrate that the individual layers can be combined to manufacture a CBRN threat protection suit with high thermal conductivity and mechanical strength.  Successful completion of the Phase I Objectives will provide a strong platform for Phase II work, where we will optimize the fabric manufacturing process and demonstrate full body suit manufacturing with the optimized fabric. By the end of Phase II, we will have manufactured a full body suit prototype with CBRN threat protection, heat dissipation, and mechanical strength levels necessary for field operation. The CBRN fabric and electrospinning manufacturing process developed in this program will meet the demands of potential military and civilians in future operations and will enable enhanced mission readiness.