METHODS OF PROTECTION AGAINST FLASH BURNS.
Abstract
The purpose of the report is to describe means of protecting against flash burns in tanks and to report the results of test of a protective cream. The short time required in evacuation, special attention was directed to various means of protection of the exposed surfaces. Extra flaps on the sleeves of garments, and face and neck shields designed to be suspended from the helmet, were considered. Such attachments have not found favor because they interfere with activity in the tank and add to the heat load imposed by the uniform. The application of ointment before combat for the purpose of protecting exposed skin has long been the practice in the Navy, and, for this purpose an improved film-forming ointment was developed by the Naval Medical Research Institute. The results of laboratory and field test with the material are given. Some general notes on the nature and characteristics of the cream and the method of application are presented. Consideration is also given to the use of methods of reducing flammability of clothing, not so much from the point of view of increasing the duration of the protection within the tank but rather to eliminate after-burning subsequent to ignition. A discussion is presented of the possible usefulness of flame-retardant materials.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 13, 1943
- Accession Number
- AD0657231
Entities
Organizations
- United States Army Medical Research Laboratory