Non-PFAS Elastomeric Chemical Barrier Materials

Chemical, Biological, Radioactive, and Nuclear (CBRN) protective items are typically comprised of an elastomeric element to impart barrier properties, while allowing a range of movement and flexibility to the person wearing the wearing them. The elastomers used in protective equipment often have fluoropolymer components or fluoropolymer-based coatings applied to enhance their barrier properties. Fluoropolymers and the fluorinated compounds used in their production are in a class of chemicals called per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and have been used in industry and commercial products for many years, and they are emitted into the environment and people are exposed to them at all stages of a fluoropolymer’s life cycle. The discovery of the widespread presence of PFAS in the environment, wildlife, and human blood triggered large-scale investigations into their persistence and health effects. The results have prompted increased scrutiny of the usage and disposal of PFAS-containing materials by governmental agencies, including the Department of Defense (DoD), which may impact the procurement and use of clothing treated with PFAS-containing materials. The Chemical and Biological Defense Program (CBD) is seeking to address this issue through the development of a novel, non-PFAS elastomeric barrier material for CBRN protective items that provides protection against liquid and vapor chemical threats while maintaining flexibility and durability. The new elastomeric barrier material should possess the properties for protective materials described in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1994 Class 1 standard, including chemical permeability, puncture, tear, and flame resistance. Methods to integrate the non-PFAS elastomeric material with other functional materials used in CBRN protective equipment will need to be developed. METSS will meet CBD’s requirements by leveraging its significant experience in the development of chemical-resistant elastomeric laminate materials, including CBRN gloves, and chemical warfare agent (CWA) simulant testing. DoE statistical analysis will be used during development efforts to streamline product selection, optimize material components, and identify any synergies between them.