Chemical, Biological Weapons Resistant Membrane Developed In Russia

Russia’s Saratov State University chemists have developed an air and vapor permeable membrane solution that can defend military personnel from chemical and biological weapons.

The project was ordered by the Fund for Perspective Research. "In cooperation with industrial partners, experimental suits have been made for Defense Ministry and Interior Ministry personnel to wear during a test period." The university’s president, Leonid Kossovich, was quoted as saying by TASS Friday.

"When the testing is over, the possibility of batch production may be considered," he added. 

By the end of this year, the testing of special suits made of a special membrane fabric is to be completed. The material’s certification will follow shortly afterwards.

"The authorities of the Saratov Region will join the project at the next stage. They are already working on an investment project for launching full-fledged industrial production of the membrane fabric," the university president said.

The membrane fabrics are impermeable to water, viruses, bacteria, toxins and allergens. The wearer of the suit is safe from the hazardous effects of chemical and biological agents. Meanwhile, the nanofiber fabric is microporous allowing air and vapor circulation.

The technical fabrics were created within the framework of a larger project of the Fund for Perspective Research for creating combat gear of the future. The research began in 2014.

"At the request of a partner in Moscow we are about to start manufacturing a large consignment of the membrane fabric, about seven kilometers in total length," Kossovich said.

The new material may come in handy for making not only military uniform, but also clothes and gear for extreme athletes and polar explorers.

"The membrane fabric is less costly, with the entire production chain located in Russia. So far all membrane water-tight air permeable materials have had to be imported. Our product will surely be in great demand on the domestic market. Several major manufacturers have already stated they are interested," Kossovich said.