Development of ballistic/knife resistant composite panels for personal protective equipment (PPE)

In the wake of recent school shootings in U.S. and increasing gun crimes in Canada, parents consider taking additional measures to protect themselves and children safe. We aimed at the development/manufacture of affordable and flexible bullet/knife resistant backpacks for civilians. The backpacks could be used as a shield against bullets/knife to save life. Current available products are expensive and not affordable for everyone. Additionally, they are not flexible/comfortable for everyday use and lack protection against knife attacks. Another potential product development for us will be the design and manufacture of ballistic suits and protective garments for civilians (especially those who travel to dangerous places) which provide reliable resistance against a multitude of threats (including knife attacks), while enhancing the flexibility and lightness for comfort and mobility of the wearer over current solutions. The available protective products in the market cost thousands of dollars lack protection against knife attacks. We invented a novel technology to make lightweight and flexible composite panels and they have successfully passed preliminary ballistic/knife tests according to standard protocols. The objective of this project is to gain a competitive edge in personal protective market and bring affordable and high-quality protective backpacks and clothing into Canadian/U.S. markets.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ravi Selvaganapathy

Student:

Dariush Firouzi

Partner:

I-INC Foundation for Business Development

Discipline:

Engineering - mechanical

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McMaster University