Flexible Composite Membranes for Selective Permeability

Abstract

This research effort focuses on the development of a novel composite membrane with multidimensional structural features and multifunctional capability. Two independently proven technologies are integrated creating a new membrane that can be engineered for selectively permeable performance to mutually facilitate water vapor transport and provide chemical agent resistance. Marrying the two technologies expands performance capabilities by allowing numerous variations in material selection for DuPont's microporous matrix, core and sheath polymers, and chemical functionalities that will provide a substrate for specialized features such as agent deactivation. ARL's nanostructured membrane is incorporated as the "filler" for the pores and has been investigated as both a post-process to the microporous membrane fabrication and as a fiber core polymer manufactured as a component of the microporous membrane. Our results have demonstrated that at least one formulation of ARL's nanostructured membrane exceeds the military threshold requirement against live chemical agents HD and GD according to Army test specification, and exhibits water vapor transport equivalent to the top commercial candidate alternative to the current JSLIST system.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 2006
Accession Number
ADA481723

Entities

People

  • Dawn M. Crawford
  • Donovan Harris
  • Gene Napadensky
  • Jim Sloan
  • Joe Perrotto
  • Vaughn Samuelson
  • Vivek Kapur

Organizations

  • United States Army Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Advanced Materials
  • Alkenes
  • Block Copolymers
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemical Warfare Agents
  • Chemistry
  • Clothing
  • Composite Materials
  • Fabrication
  • Films
  • Materials
  • Materials Processing
  • Permeability
  • Physical Properties
  • Protective Clothing
  • Standards
  • Water Vapor

Readers

  • Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry
  • Reinforced Composite Materials
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Microelectronics