Optimer Performance Fibers has developed a new flame resistant version of Dri-release with FreshGuard in response to the needs of the military serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Most military issue undergarments have been traditionally made of cotton. In Afghanistan, however, the military encountered a harsh environment where temperatures shifted rapidly between desert heat and extreme cold. Cotton garments retained moisture resulting in severe chills and even hypothermia. Identifying the need for moisture wicking features in their ‘first layer’, many soldiers switched to polyester-based performance products. In Iraq, however, hazards were different. Flash fires from explosive devices could cause the polyester-based products to melt and drip onto skin.

The military began to search for a suitable fabric and this led to Safety Systems, a provider of tactical equipment and apparel to the military, contacting Optimer. The companies then worked together to find the right combination that would meet the military’s needs.
 “It took two years in development but the result is everything that Safety Systems asked for,” said Beth Moore, managing director of operations at Optimer. “In addition to its typical moisture management capabilities the new Dri-release ‘FR’ (flame resistant) version is not only self extinguishing, it quickly turns to ash and, most definitely, does not melt or drip.”
Safety Systems will market the new line of engineered, hybrid performance garments, using an exclusive flame-resistant variant of Dri-release under the dri-FIRE name.  

As with all Dri-release products, dri-FIRE delivers accelerated moisture management yet feels like a natural fibre against the skin. Furthermore, with Optimer’s FreshGuard ingredient in dri-FIRE, it will also help to keep personnel feeling fresh while in the field.   

Dri-FIRE products will be sold directly through Safety Systems as well as through its distribution network. Short and long sleeve T-shirts, boxers and a long pant are available for autumn 2006 delivery in silk weight. Mid- and heavy weight versions along with a fleece jacket, vest and hat will be available in spring 2007. Dri-release is a patented blend of hydrophobic (water repelling) and hydrophilic (water accepting) fibres that accelerates the water release rate of wet fabric. Tests show it dries four times faster than cotton and is said to dry faster than any other performance fabric on the market – including 100% polyester. FreshGuard is an environmentally friendly odour neutraliser built directly into all Dri-release fabrics. Unlike many moisture management products, both the Dri-release and FreshGuard technologies are also permanent.