New fabric reduces explosive shock waves

HOUSTON, June 25 (UPI) -- A new blast-mitigation fabric developed by Exeter University and Dow Corning Ltd. reduces explosive shock waves by 25 percent, researchers say.

Houston-based Advanced Fabric Technologies, which markets Zetix, said it was originally developed as a blast-curtain to catch window glass and other debris, but testing has shown it also reduces an explosion's deadly shockwave.

"Zetix, based on patented auxetic technology, represents a completely new approach to blast mitigation because the material automatically adjusts its strength and thickness in response to the application of explosive and other forces," AFT President David O'Keefe said in a news release.

"Security applications for Zetix include lightweight armor enhancements for combat vehicles, aircraft and ships; spall liners; blast curtains, bomb blankets; and even bullet-proof vests when employed behind ceramic strike plates.

"Other applications include hurricane protection for refineries and offshore oil and gas facilities, self-adjusting filters, injury-reducing seat belts, and medial materials," he said.

Zetix uses plastic yarn wrapped in non-elastic fibers. The yarn bulges instead of thinning when stretched, the company said, and can be interwoven with fiber optics, telemetry wires and other materials for additional capabilities.

Tests conducted through Britain's Defense Ministry showed a single layer of Zetix made shrapnel for a rocket-propelled grenade that was detonated from a distance of 5 feet non-lethal, ATF said. In another test, one layer of the fabric withstood eight consecutive grenade blasts from a distance of 3 feet.