Future of Engineering

One fine day Jeanette received a request from the U.S. military. No, she wasn't entrusted to save the world single handedly from the bad guys. She had to find a heat-resistant material that can be worn by the troops. With great determination she embarked on this interesting mission.

Now Agricultural Research Service (ARS) chemist Jeanette M. Cardamone has discovered and patented a heat-resistant material that can be incorporated into wool and other fabrics to match the flame resistance of commercial firefighters' uniforms.

Earlier she had created the "biopolished" wool that is both machine-washable and itch-free. Now, " working with visiting scientist Anand Kanchagar, Cardamone improved the flame retardancy of the biopolished wool by treating it with a heat-resistant polymer that is stable, easy to process and highly tolerant of extreme temperatures.Early tests have shown that the burning behavior of the polymer-treated ARS wool compares to a 50/50 blend of wool with Nomex, the fabric currently used in protective firefighting gear."

Synthetic materials can stick on to the wound, whereas wool turns to ash. This makes it an ideal choice for the troops and firefighters. Biopolished wool aims to make the attire much safer. Currently they are collaborating with interested companies to enhance its virtues.

Source - Science Daily

Labels: Textile-Engineering