Kappler proposes to develop a novel fabric composite that when constructed into Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) garments, provides protection to the wearer from multiple threats. The proposed research set forth by Kappler, Inc. is innovative in that it augments current Kappler base fabrics that protect from chemical, biologic, and flame hazards, but will now include protection from ballistic and stabbing threats. The primary objective for this Phase I SBIR will be to (1) investigate fabrication and joining technologies and techniques to integrate Kappler's Lantex(R) and Frontline(R) fabrics with other commercially available fabrics that meet national standards for ballistic and stabbing threats and (2) to ensure that the resultant garment meets end user requirements for usability, durability, and cost. Kappler expects to develop, validate, produce, and commercialize a full spectrum novel protective suit that will be utilized by both first responders and security personnel that oftentimes deal with multiple unknown threats.
