CBRN Gloves with Improved Tactility and Touch-Screen Capability

State-of-the-art chemical, biological, radioactive, and nuclear (CBRN) gloves provide adequate protection but significantly limit the dexterity, tactility, and general functionality of the wearer. In addition, current gloves are often not compatible with touch screen electronics prevalent in modern society. All of these negatives contribute to a reduced user acceptance and effectiveness that may contribute to unnecessary safety hazards. There is a defined need for advanced materials for next-generation CBRN gloves that not only protect but also enable to wearer by improving functionality, comfort, and allowing the gloved use of modern touch-screen electronic devices. Cornerstone Research Group (CRG) proposes to develop and demonstrate next generation elastomeric composite materials for deployment as advanced CBRN gloves. These multi-functional composites will exhibit the necessary combination of protection and functionality to improve wearer experience. By intelligently developing formulation and processing techniques, the developed material will exhibit exception chemical permeation resistance, improved strength and tear resistance, and the level of conductivity required for touch screen compatibility. This combination of material properties will result in CBRN gloves that are thinner, lighter weight, more comfortable, and possessing more functionality for our DoD personnel and civilian first responders.