The Effect of Air Permeability on the Chemical Protective Performance of NBC Suits
Abstract
The heat load imposed by air-permeable NBC-protective suits can be reduced by improving the air permeability of the suit. However increased air permeability will reduce the chemical protective performance. In this study the relation between the chemical protective performance and air permeability of NBC-clothing is evaluated. Mustard vapour challenge tests were performed on a number of NBC protective materials, to evaluate their level of protection. The penetration of mustard vapour was correlated with the dynamic adsorption capacity and the air permeability of the material. The air permeability of the material appears to be a parameter of critical importance. High air permeability of the material is conflicting with a good protective performance. A theoretical model was developed, which describes the chemical protection of air permeable protective clothing material under various conditions. Using this model the effect of airflow through the material on the breakthrough of mustard vapour was calculated and compared with the results of breakthrough experiments. The predictions of the model are in good agreement with the experimental results. The relation between air permeability and protective performance provides an insight in the costs of an adequate protection in tens of physiological load.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADP012449
Entities
People
- Joke Kaaijk
- Paul Brasser
Organizations
- Prins Maurits Laboratorium TNO