Textile for Under Armor Blast Protection Navy SBIR FY2005.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2005.2 Topic No.: N05-137 Topic Title: Textile for Under Armor Blast Protection Proposal No.: N052-137-0198 Firm: SmartWear, LLC 1802 Ocean Park Blvd., Suite E Santa Monica, California 90405-4947 Contact: Michael Pottenger Phone: (310) 396-1339 Abstract: A fabric layer that provides shock absorption and energy dissipation functions is proposed to provide improved blast protection. Made from piezoelectric materials, the fibers convert the kinetic energy of mechanical impact into an electrical signal that is dissipated by the fabric. Piezoelectric fabrics can potentially address all of the stated solicitation requirements: Provide protection against pressure waves and fragmentation caused by detonation of IED's and other explosives; small, lightweight, flexible, breathable and able to be integrated into soldier clothing and other wearable gear; does not interfere with soldier mobility, increase thermal signature or induce fatigue. The applicant has conducted previous SBIR work to evaluate piezoelectric materials' effectiveness in wearable applications to damp vibrations, as well as to develop and characterize piezoelectric fabrics for use as portable and/or wearable power sources. That work provides a solid foundation to address the current solicitation. While still in the development stage, the piezoelectric fabric prototypes (see Section D) were produced on a commercial pilot production line. There is therefore a clear path to scale-up any results to production should the current project prove successful. Benefits: The proposed fabrics would be beneficial in uniforms for military users as well as law enforcement, security, first responders, and other emergency personnel who are exposed to potential blast threats. In addition to pressure blasts and fragmentation, the proposed fabrics could also be developed for use as protection against vibration and impact. Return