Non-Flammable Crew Clothing Utilizing Phosphorus-Based Fire Retardant Polymers

For maintaining U.S. leadership role in space exploration, there is an urgent need to develop non-flammable shirts, shorts, sweaters, and jackets without compromising the comfort and flexibility of the fabrics. InnoSense LLC (ISL) proposes to utilize its phosphorus-containing ionic polymers in crew clothing. In Phase I, this project would demonstrate flame retardancy and perform standard tests showing adequate comfort, appearance, durability, and non-toxicity, which can be realized from ISL polymers. The overall goal is to take existing fabrics, with their desirable physical properties and high level of comfort, and inserting flame retardancy. The innovations of the proposed approach will offer durability of the treated fabric since the polymers will be covalently bonded to the fabrics. Phase I evaluation will also include biocompatibility of the treated fabrics. Fine-tuning and process scale up will be accomplished in Phase II.

Flame retardant polymers can be incorporated into items used in our everyday life. Examples include: linen, blankets, mattresses, upholstered furniture covers, furniture fabrics, carpets, textile wall lining, curtains, protective clothes, tarpaulins, and tents. A major NASA prime contractor has shown interest in the ISL technology for their commercial enterprises.

The immediate targeted application for NASA is crew clothing. Fire poses a great safety threat to the crew. This technology will be applicable to NASA crew clothing items like shirts, shorts, sweaters, and jackets without compromising the comfort and flexibility. ISL's phosphorus polymers can also be incorporated to insulation materials, packing materials, foams, upholstery or bedding used in space habitats and exploratory vehicles.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.