Research on protective clothing for firefighters using nanotechnology
Firefighters work at dangerous disaster sites where their lives are put at risk. For these firefighters, protective clothing can easily be called the most important lifesaver available to them. The fabric of such clothing is very stiff due to the high heat resistance that is demanded.
This makes it uncomfortable and not very functional to wear. We have thus far measured and analyzed the heat resistance, comfort, and functionality of protective clothing, and based on the findings, have proposed standard values for the performance of such clothing in Japan.
In an attempt to raise heat resistance, comfort, and functionality performance, attempts have been made to develop protective clothing using a variety of existing materials, but progression is currently at a dead end.
The development of new protective clothing promises to protect firefighters and help them perform firefighting effectively.
In an effort to spark a groundbreaking evolution in protective clothing, we are pursuing research in this area using nanotechnology, for example nanomaterials and nanocoatings.
We are also studying new methods and standards for evaluating the heat resistance, comfort, and functionality demanded for nanotechnology-based protective clothing, and are planning the development of a simulation program that can predict the heat resistance of protective clothing by entering the physical parameters of the fabric from which it is made.
