Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: A11-135

Description

To address the Armys need for a high-performance, climate-adaptive thermal insulation material, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) developed a new Multilayer Thermally Induced Curl (MULTIC) fiber. The MULTIC technology offers the Army an all-in-one protective garment solution that responds instantly to the thermal protection needs of the Soldier, mitigating the need to carry additional layers of clothing and thus reducing the weight and space requirements of the carry load. Thermal adaptability is achieved by using smart polymer fibers that can be integrated in nonwoven padding mats for use in sleeping bags and blankets, or for outerwear garments such as fleece jackets and vests. MULTIC-based materials are proven to increase loft at low ambient temperatures, adjusting the amount of thermal insulation according to the current weather conditions. The new fibers can be inexpensively produced using conventional manufacturing techniques from commercially available polymers. In Phase I, POC demonstrated the feasibility of MULTIC adaptive fibers by producing an experimental fiber spinning apparatus and manufacturing and testing samples of thermally responsive fibers. In Phase II, POC plans to manufacture, in cooperation with our protective clothing industry partner, functional garment components and conduct product qualification through thermal performance testing with full-size models.