US-based health science technology company HaloSource, Inc. and technical textiles manufacturer Gentex Corporation have agreed to collaborate in the development of technology focusing on protective chemical/biological apparel, strippable barriers, reactive coatings and air and water purification applications for the US Department of Defence  and US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

The agreement will capitalise on the benefits of HaloSource's HaloShield technology being incorporated into Gentex's Lifetex materials - Chemical Biological Defence textile systems, personal protective military overgarments, and law enforcement Rampart apparel - all designed to offer self-detoxifying protection to personnel facing life-threatening, life-saving situations.

HaloShield is a patented technology using common halogens - chlorine or bromine - to neutralise chemical and biological agents.