The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) has secured a contract to deliver advanced respiratory protective equipment for the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
The A$8.6m ($5.8m) Defence Innovation Hub contract will see the national science agency further develop and commercialise its respirator technology.
According to a government statement, the technology will use organic material instead of carbon-based absorbent material to offer a respirator canister that can provide protection against a range of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) agents.
The canister will be developed to ensure that military personnel remain protected for longer periods during missions against contaminants.
Additionally, the device will reduce exposure to an array of toxic industrial chemicals.
CSIRO will work with Monash University as well as domestic entities, including Melbourne-based Boron Molecular and Brisbane-based EPE Trusted to Protect, to develop the respirator.
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By GlobalDataAustralian Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic said: “We are using science to create real-world solutions, working with Australian industry to build sovereign capability and turn brilliant ideas into something ground-breaking to protect ADF personnel.”
CSIRO chief executive Dr Larry Marshall said: “We are aiming to develop a respirator that will be the most capable in the world.”
Recently, the Australian Army Aviation Command received two additional CH-47F Chinook helicopters from the US.
