ISSN: 1546-962X
Published Online: 31 January 2005
Page Count: 8

Novel Approach to Soldier Flame Protection
Winterhalter, CA
Textile Technologist, U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Center, MA

Lomba, RA
Textile Technologist, U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Center, MA

Tucker, DW
Senior Operations Research Systems Analyst, U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Center, MA

Martin, OD
Senior Research Chemist, DuPont Advanced Fibers Systems, VA

(Received 18 November 2003; accepted 28 July 2004)

Abstract

The U.S. Army desires low cost combat uniform fabrics that provide flame protection, visual and near infrared camouflage, comfort, and durability. Prior to material development, the flame threat and hazard was investigated and characterized. Flammability related test methods were reviewed and pass/fail criteria for instrumented manikin testing was established based on military medical doctrine. Various fibers, fiber blends, and functional finishes were investigated and novel blend materials were developed. Textile manufacturing methods not traditionally used in military protective clothing such as core-spun yarn spinning and direct fiber-to-fabric non-woven technologies were also investigated. When compared to the standard issue combat uniform, the best performing protective clothing configuration demonstrated a reduction in total body burn from 88% to 8%. Safe exposure limits of up to 5 s were established.

Keywords:
flame protective clothing systems, flame resistant textiles, combat uniform fabrics, military, army, soldier

Paper ID: JAI12118
DOI: 10.1520/JAI12118
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