--Improved Flame Retardant Fabrics for Combat Uniforms via Intumescent Coatings

The Multifunctional Materials Team, Warfighter Science, Technology and Research Directorate at the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development, and Engineering Center, Natick, MA has a need to identify possible solutions to add Flame Retardant (F R) properties to currently fielded combat uniform materials via intumescent coatings. The government is conducting a market investigation seeking product information, manufacturing capabilities and/or samples of intumescent coating technology applied to c ombat uniforms. The intumescent coating technology should improve upon the current flame resistance of combat uniforms. The government will perform all physical and other required testing to determine the best performing solution available. Companies ma y request testing results regarding only their own materials. When submitting U.S. contracts, offers are cautioned that their products (all materials and manufacturing) must comply with Berry Amendment Restrictions (see DFARS 252.225-7012). Products shal l meet the following critical performance requirements: (1) Conform to current IR spectral performance requirements for Universal camouflage, (2) Conform to current visual color requirements for Universal camouflage, (3) Conform to current physical perfor mance requirements, (4) Flame retardant with a focus on durability, increasing ignition time and reducing melt and drip, and (5) The coating used must be an intumescent coating. It is also desired that this material be comparable to current combat uniform materials in performance, weight, and where possible, cost. Interested firms are requested to submit information on their product within thirty (30) days following the publication of this synopsis. Information should include, but not limited to, product cost, technical information (e.g. physical properties, performance characteristics, test methodology (e.g. ASTM, AATCC, NFPA 701)), certification/compliance, relevant company background/experience, and any other information that the company believes demon strates the value of their product(s) and the ability to meet the aforementioned requirements. Companies are also encouraged to submit samples for evaluation. Any information/samples submitted will not be returned, and no payment will be made by the gove rnment for such samples. The testing results will be controlled and used for governmental purposes only. Responses to this notice are to be sent to Mr. Marc Mathews, Multifunctional Materials Team, ATTN: AMSRD-NSC-WS-TM, 15 Kansas St., Natick, MA 01760-5 019. This notice is for market survey only. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR QUOTATIONS. No solicitation document exists. POC for this request is Marc Mathews +1 (555) 000-0000, FAX +1 (555) 000-0000 or email contact@example.gov. Email your questions to US Ar my Natick Soldier Research, Development, and Engineering Center at contact@example.gov.