http://www.stuff.co.nz/4689531a11.html
A fabric that is stab- and fireproof and can be worn as everyday clothing has been developed by New Zealand scientists.
The world-first fabric - which weighs no more than existing woollen jackets such as a Swanndri - is the brainchild of crown research institute AgResearch.
As well as repelling all but the sharpest of knives, the black wool is so resistant to flames that skin underneath it can withstand a blowtorch for 30 seconds before feeling the heat.
The fabric could have a huge international market as a new option for military and police forces, security firms and postal services.
AgResearch Lincoln textiles section manager Peter Ingham said the material was produced by knitting highly protective Vectran - a substance used in bulletproof vests - together with wool.
"It looks just like a normal Swanndri-type thing and it's very comfortable to wear because it's got all the properties of wool, but in the middle is this incredibly tough Vectran knitted structure."
Though an attacker with two hands on a very sharp knife could probably penetrate the material horizontally, it was resistant to most blades, he said.
"One hand on the knife, on a standing-up target ... you won't penetrate. Anything prison wardens might be facing like a chisel or a sharpened toothbrush - no way you'll get through it."
Talks had begun with a company to produce the material commercially.
"It appears there is quite a wide range of uses for it. Some have suggested streetwear for South Auckland."
A fabric that is stab- and fireproof and can be worn as everyday clothing has been developed by New Zealand scientists.
The world-first fabric - which weighs no more than existing woollen jackets such as a Swanndri - is the brainchild of crown research institute AgResearch.
As well as repelling all but the sharpest of knives, the black wool is so resistant to flames that skin underneath it can withstand a blowtorch for 30 seconds before feeling the heat.
The fabric could have a huge international market as a new option for military and police forces, security firms and postal services.
AgResearch Lincoln textiles section manager Peter Ingham said the material was produced by knitting highly protective Vectran - a substance used in bulletproof vests - together with wool.
"It looks just like a normal Swanndri-type thing and it's very comfortable to wear because it's got all the properties of wool, but in the middle is this incredibly tough Vectran knitted structure."
Though an attacker with two hands on a very sharp knife could probably penetrate the material horizontally, it was resistant to most blades, he said.
"One hand on the knife, on a standing-up target ... you won't penetrate. Anything prison wardens might be facing like a chisel or a sharpened toothbrush - no way you'll get through it."
Talks had begun with a company to produce the material commercially.
"It appears there is quite a wide range of uses for it. Some have suggested streetwear for South Auckland."