A fabric layer that provides shock absorption and energy dissipation functions is proposed to provide improved blast protection. Made from piezoelectric materials, the fibers convert the kinetic energy of mechanical impact into an electrical signal that is dissipated by the fabric. Piezoelectric fabrics can potentially address all of the stated solicitation requirements: Provide protection against pressure waves and fragmentation caused by detonation of IED's and other explosives; small, lightweight, flexible, breathable and able to be integrated into soldier clothing and other wearable gear; does not interfere with soldier mobility, increase thermal signature or induce fatigue. The applicant has conducted previous SBIR work to evaluate piezoelectric materials' effectiveness in wearable applications to damp vibrations, as well as to develop and characterize piezoelectric fabrics for use as portable and/or wearable power sources. That work provides a solid foundation to address the current solicitation. While still in the development stage, the piezoelectric fabric prototypes (see Section D) were produced on a commercial pilot production line. There is therefore a clear path to scale-up any results to production should the current project prove successful.
Keywords: Improvised Explosive Device (Ied); Blast Protection; Materials; Body Armor; Textile, Garments, Force Protection, Combat Equipment
