Nanofibre uniform protects soldiers against chemical threats

Researchers at CSIRO have developed a next-generation uniform prototype that employs nanofibres to safeguard wearers from chemical and biological threats, by filtering out harmful particles while remaining lightweight and breathable.

CSIRO Manufacturing Research Unit Director Dr Marcus Zipper said the textile innovation was the result of collaboration with industry and research partners, including DMTC (formerly known as the Defence Materials Technology Centre).

“Our nanofibre technology, pioneered by CSIRO scientists, 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,” Zipper said.

“CSIRO research and development in materials science looks to improve how a particular material functions — we work across a broad range of advanced materials including metals, composites, polymers, adsorbents and nanofibres.”

DMTC’s Head of Program Management, Deepak Ganga, said the new prototype uniform could deliver a significant leap forward in soldier protection, ensuring better comfort and mobility in harsh environments. CSIRO project lead Dr Yen Truong added that the key to the prototype’s success lies in its innovative nanofibre technology.

“In rigorous testing, the prototype surpassed all performance targets for air filtration, air permeability, thermal comfort and chemical protection,” Truong said.

“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 the Department of Defence, while the nanofibre suit prototype was coordinated by DMTC. Other project supporters include Bruck Textiles, Defence Science and Technology Group, and RMIT University.

With DMTC, Truong and the team are seeking funding to progress to the next stage of development, which is expected to involve field testing with Australian Defence Force personnel and further refinement of scaled manufacturing processes with industrial partners.

Image caption: CSIRO project lead Dr Yen Truong and DMTC Head of Program Management Deepak Ganga with the prototype uniform.