Carbtex Technology, Inc., has received an R&D 100 Award for Diamondown, a high-tech carbon-based fiber that is used to produce an affordable comfort management clothing system. The awards are presented by R&D Magazine to recognize and celebrate the 100 most technologically significant products introduced in the past year.

Diamondown is made from yarn and fabrics containing Dr. McCullough's patented Carbtex Fiber, a flexible bi-regional carbonaceous fiber, used for clothing as well as thermal shield. By blocking conductive and convective heat as well as radiant energy transfer, this innovative system doubles the thermal resistance of any other polymer or natural product insulation. This makes Diamondown superior to all other insulated gear on the market and, in fact, the first innovation in comfort management clothing since the 1970s.

"We're honored to receive such an Award," said Dr. Frank McCullough who led the development of the fiber technology. "We're especially proud to have filled the gap between extreme outdoor clothing and lack of comfortableness. We tested the product with hunters, military officers, skiers and the famous Alaskan Iditarod, exposing the gear to temperatures as low as -50 F, high winds, and extreme usage. They were all astonished by its quality, durability and comfort."

With its 2-layer unique system, Diamondown allows no-bulk lightweight comfort and shows effectiveness over wide ranges of temperatures.  Its special comfort management technology retains 91% of body heat and prevents accumulation of perspiration using Microevaporative cooling, providing breathability and comfort even at room temperature.  Some of the testing was done at the Textile Research facility at Auburn University's Department of Polymer & Fiber Engineering under the direction of Professor David M. Hall, and where Dr. McCullough is also Adjunct Professor.

Previously, Dr. McCullough has led the development of four other advanced material technologies that received R&D 100 Awards.  These previous awards include Curlon aircraft insulation, NuGard cut resistant hand and arm protection, light weight FR clothing for firefighters and electric plasma arc protective clothing.