Nanofibre uniform protects against chemical hazards

A next-generation uniform prototype has successfully been developed by CSIRO researchers for Australian soldiers.

The innovative material is a fabric that is designed to protect troops from chemical and biological threats. It does this by filtering out harmful particles while remaining lightweight and breathable, keeping the wearer comfortable in extreme temperatures.

CSIRO Manufacturing Research Unit Director Dr Marcus Zipper said this textile innovation was the result of collaboration with industry and research partners, including DMTC.

“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’s prototype nanofibre uniform.

“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.”

CSIRO project lead Dr Yen Truong said the key to the prototype’s success lies in its innovative nanofibre technology, developed by CSIRO scientists.

“We harnessed the unique properties of nanofibres to create a lightweight fabric that effectively filters out harmful particles while remaining highly breathable,” Truong said.

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

“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 this project was funded by the Department of Defence. The successful nanofibre suit prototype was coordinated by DMTC Limited.

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

With DMTC Limited, Truong and 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.

Top image caption: CSIRO project lead Dr Yen Truong (L) and Head of Program Management at DMTC Deepak Ganga (R) with the prototype uniform. Both images supplied.