BattleJacket™ Containment Systems
Protective coatings for the Defence industry
Abstract: An urgent requirement existed for the Army to prevent and/or minimise fuel leakage on fuel tankers due to small arms fire from insurgents. A self-sealing/self-healing external fuel tanker membrane system was developed to meet this urgent need. The system utilises technology developed by Rhino Linings® & High Impact Technologies™ (HIT). The membrane uses a spray polyurethane elastomer and proprietary additive which combine to expand and seal permanently the undesired holes from ballistic penetration. A specialised application process was also developed to allow the US military to apply the system to fuel tankers in the field and in theater.
Mission: Saving Fuel, Saving Lives
- To prevent and/or minimise fuel leakage of fuel tankers due to small-arms fire
- To eliminate fuel leakage resulting in hazardous conditions: fire, explosion and death
- The BattleJacket™ (FCS) coating is based on a specially formulated fire resistant urethane
- US military designation for this spray coating technology is called Fuel Tank Self-Sealing (FTSS)
Technology – From Practical to Tactical: During the spray process, a proprietary additive is embedded into the formula which is activated when exposed to fuel. This additive acts in conjunction with the urethane to tightly seal off the undesired entrance and exit holes created by a projectile.
Application:
- A specialized process was developed which requires a closed-in spray booth with unique equipment to apply the additive
- A mobile spray-application facility has been developed which brings the process to any location
- Specific thicknesses of the coating have been developed for various tank geometries, tank substrates and ballistic threats
- Now serving in multiple battle arenas
Key Attributes:
- Prevents fuel loss caused by IEDs, mines, and small arms fire
- Field repair patch kit available for larger puncture areas
- Provides vibration and acoustic damping
- Thermal insulation
- Adds structural integrity
- Applicable to both metal and plastic surfaces
- Provides superior corrosion and abrasion protection
- Tenacious adhesion for long-term service
- Available in various colors
- Self-sealing polymer
The Future: The BattleJacket – Fuel Containment System (FCS) is the appropriate technology to bring to any vulnerable vehicle, train or ship-based fuel tank. This technology is applicable to storage tanks, pipelines and other fuel structures worldwide.