Development of an aqueous graphene dispersion for a fluorine-free CBRN barrier membrane impermeable to highly penetrating toxic agents

PROJECT COST:

888 047 $

PRIMA CONTRIBUTION:

352 847 $

PROJECT DETAILS:

In 2017, the CTT Group and Stedfast began working together to develop a CBRN barrier textile. Supported by PRIMA through project R16-46-001, this collaboration resulted in the Stedair CAT (Chemical Active Textile) prototype. It was made by coating two graphene-based formulations onto an ePTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) laminate. The material performs well above the NFPA 1994 standard (section 7.4.2) for Class 3 chemical protective membranes. It is also 30% more flexible than a competing product, offering better comfort for users.

The first prototypes were manufactured using a commercially available aqueous graphene dispersion. In 2022, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) issued a statement warning its members about the health risks associated with the presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in their protective gear.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is preparing more stringent standards that include a “PFAS-free” requirement. Among these standards is NFPA 1990 (which consolidates the former NFPA 1991, 1992, and 1994 standards), defining the technical specifications and required testing for components of protective suits against hazardous materials and CBRN environments. The implementation of this standard and related regulatory changes requires the optimization of the developed product to ensure the sovereignty of Canadian security forces

Through this project, Stedfast aims to master the manufacturing process of protective layer formulations and to control the quality and cost of the finished product. The cost and import conditions associated with using the graphene dispersion from the only North American supplier (which contains only 4% graphene) hinder the commercial success of a barrier textile made in Québec. Thus, Stedfast will become the first Canadian company to commercialize a CBRN product compliant with the requirements of the NFPA 1990 standard.