Technical Absorbents (TAL) recently visited the Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue training facility to catch up with firefighters who are testing prototype tabards made from its Super Absorbent Fibre® -based KoolSorb fabric technology. The garments are being worn under their PPE during intensive training sessions at the RAF Waddinton site.

Fire trainer Mick Burrows has been running the sessions, which include tackling flames with breathing apparatus and rigorous search and rescue operations. During these exercises the instructors can spend around an hour in temperatures of up to 500°F.

“It is the perfect environment in which to gain valuable feedback on this innovative patent pending coolant fabric technology,” explains TAL Business Development Manager Dave Hill, “and initial feedback has been extremely positive.”

KoolSorb fabric has been developed to be worn under heavy clothing next to the skin, by personnel working in challenging environments such as fire, search and rescue, and the military.

The fabric stimulates the dissipation of heat and moisture through the absorption and containment of body sweat and affords the wearer a cooling effect – directly reducing the risk of heat-stress. The material in touch with the skin remains relatively dry and conducts heat away from the hot areas of the body.

“We have been working on this concept for a few years,” finishes Dave. “The fabric can provide up to a 6°C cooling effect for the wearer and can absorb up to two litres of sweat. Garments made using this technology can also be laundered. This has taken a while to achieve but is essential in order to turn the concept into a commercially viable product.”