The U.S. army put out a request for information (RFI) on hemp and jute to potentially explore the uses it may have for their snipers uniforms.
Research has shown that the complex three-dimensional structure of hemp fibres results in a moisture-absorption rate three times that of cotton, and kills bacteria that come into contact with woven fabric within one hour. Furthermore, material made from hemp is also fast-drying, can shield more than 95 percent of ultraviolet rays, is non-fading up to 370° C (698 F°) and does not burn at 1000° (1,832 F°) or below.
Under the U.S. Army’s supplier guidelines, finished hemp yarn can be imported from other countries or spun domestically; jute fabric must be spun in the U.S. but raw materials may be imported. The material cannot present a health hazard to soldiers, must be compatible with prolonged, direct skin contact, and cannot add significant weight to the uniforms.
The Army’s RFI is issued for information gathering and planning purposes only, does not constitute formal bidding, “and will not directly lead to any contract awards,” the Army said. Responses to the RFI are due by July 27.
