Researchers at CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, have successfully developed a next-generation uniform prototype employing nanofibres to safeguard Australian troops from chemical and biological threats.

The lightweight fabric – the result of collaboration with industry and research partners – effectively filters out harmful particles while remaining light-weight and breathable, keeping the wearer comfortable in extreme temperatures.

“Our nanofibre technology has the potential to significantly improve the level of protection soldiers’ uniforms provide and can also be used for non-military applications, including protecting emergency responders and hazmat crews,” said CSIRO manufacturing research unit director Dr Marcus Zipper. “CSIRO research and development in materials science looks to improve how a particular material functions and we work across a broad range of advanced materials including metals, composites, polymers, adsorbents and nanofibres.”

“In rigorous testing, the prototype surpassed all performance targets for air filtration, air permeability, thermal comfort and chemical protection,” added CSIRO project lead Dr Yen Truong. “This means it effectively filters pollutants from the air, allows for breathability, maintains comfortable temperatures even in extreme conditions, and offers superior protection from hazardous chemicals.”

The initial phase of the project was funded by Australia’s Department of Defence and the successful nanofibre suit prototype was coordinated by Kew, Victoria-headquartered DMTC Limited.

Also involved in supporting the project are Bruck Textiles, the Defence Science and Technology Group and RMIT University.

“The new prototype uniform could deliver a significant leap forward in soldier protection, ensuring better comfort and mobility in harsh environments,” said Deepak Ganga, head of programme management at DMTC. “This project demonstrates the power of collaboration. CSIRO’s scientific excellence in nanofibre research has been matched with the expertise of our partners in textiles, defence science and manufacturing. This has resulted in a groundbreaking solution that offers benefits for Australian troops, for the first responder community and potentially for Australia’s alliance partners.”

www.csiro.au