The US Navy is looking to develop new uniforms that are free of harmful chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). PFAS are used in many consumer products for their water and stain repellent properties, but they are also linked to health problems and environmental damage.
The Navy’s clothing research facility is particularly focused on finding a replacement for the PFAS coatings used on the water-repellent outer layers of uniforms. They will be testing non-PFAS alternatives on a new cold-weather shipboard jacket that is currently under development. This new cold weather clothing system is designed to protect sailors in extreme cold (as low as -60 degrees Fahrenheit) and harsh weather conditions.
The Navy is also concerned about the environmental impact of PFAS-containing uniforms. They will be researching ways to minimize fiber fragmentation from uniforms during washing, as these fibers can enter waterways and harm ecosystems.
The funding requests for these initiatives still need to be approved by lawmakers before they can move forward.
