Much of the chemical biological (CB) protective clothing used by the military is based on the use of activated charcoal as a major component of a composite textile system. This clothing does a good job in providing protection, however it is quite heavy, uncomfortable, and potentially subjects the wearer to heat stress. Lightweight textile systems are under development to address these issues. Laminates have been developed based on selectively permeable membranes as well as others incorporating filter fabrics. These novel materials have the potential to provide CB protection in lighter weight, more comfortable clothing systems.
