Self-Decontaminating Materials

Abstract

Surfaces that resist contamination through some combination of exclusion or reactivity may be grouped as Self-Decontaminating Materials (SDMs). A direct means to effect exclusion is to incorporate fluorine substituents into the surface of the SDM. Reactivity derives from the presence of chemically active groups, either at the surface or distributed throughout the medium. Whereas exclusion and catalytic reactivity tend to persist in the SDM after they have achieved their protective function, chemically active groups that combine or react with the contaminant will be consumed and may eventually be exhausted after extreme exposure. Applications now addressed in military operations center around minimizing penetration by chemical and biological agents until first responders are able to execute decontamination procedures or spontaneous decomposition occurs. However, filters, protective skin creams, coatings, and a spectrum of fabric products are ready for evaluation, and long-term development projects include SDM replacements for current shelter and filter materials.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 2001
Accession Number
ADA402041

Entities

People

  • Joseph D. Wander

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

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  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems

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  • Abstracts
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemical Warfare
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  • Chemistry
  • Engineering
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  • Environment
  • Force Protection
  • Governments
  • Materials
  • Medical Personnel
  • Resins
  • Security
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Readers

  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Environmental Engineering.
  • Surface Coatings Technology.