Business

Russia Develops Protective Fabric Against Bio, Chemical Weapons

Russian scientists claim to have developed a membrane solution capable of protecting military personnel from chemical and biological weapons while remaining air and vapour permeable, in a project ordered by the Fund for Perspective Research. The testing of special suits made of the special membrane fabric is to be completed by the end of this year.

The membrane solution has been developed by chemists from the Saratov State University. "In cooperation with industrial partners, experimental suits have been made for Defence Ministry and Interior Ministry personnel to wear during a test period. When the testing is over, the possibility of batch production may be considered," Saratov State University president Leonid Kossovich said.

After completion of testing by the end of this year, the material would go for certification, Kossovich said. "The authorities of the Saratov Region will join the project at the next stage. They are already working on an investment project for launching full-fledged industrial production of the membrane fabric," Kossovich was quoted as saying.

The membrane fabrics are impermeable to water, viruses, bacteria, toxins and allergens, making the wearer safe from the hazardous effects of chemical and biological agents. At the same time, the nanofibre fabric is microporous allowing for air and vapour circulation. The technical fabrics were created within the framework of a larger project of the Fund for Perspective Research for creating combat gear of the future. The research began in 2014.

"At the request of a partner in Moscow we are about to start manufacturing a large consignment of the membrane fabric, about seven kilometres in total length," Kossovich said. The new material may come in handy for making not only military uniform, but also clothes and gear for extreme athletes and polar explorers, according to the report.

"The properties of the Russian product surpass those of its foreign counterparts. Also, the membrane fabric is less costly, with the entire production chain located in Russia. So far all membrane water-tight air permeable materials have had to be imported. Our product will surely be in great demand on the domestic market. Several major manufacturers have already stated they are interested," Kossovich said.