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US Launches Textile Challenge For Next-Gen Chemical Protective Fabrics

• By  Textile Excellence
• July 27, 2026

The race to develop advanced protective textiles is accelerating. Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA) has launched a national Chemical Protective Textile Challenge to identify breakthrough materials capable of protecting against chemical and fuel-related hazards faced by defence personnel.

Sponsored by the Capability Program Executive for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (CPE CBRND) through its SPARK innovation incubator, the challenge will focus on textile-based materials that can provide enhanced protection against hydrofluoric acid (HF), jet fuel, rocket fuel and related operational hazards.

The initiative aims to develop the next generation of protective systems that combine high protection levels with durability, flexibility, comfort and manufacturability.

Material manufacturers, textile companies, startups, universities and research institutions have been invited to participate. An Industry Day will be held on 4 August 2026 in Fayetteville, North Carolina, where innovators will receive details on operational requirements, interact with government experts and defence users, and present their advanced material solutions through optional private pitch sessions.

“Protecting the warfighter requires continuously identifying and advancing innovative materials that address evolving operational threats,” said Dr. Sasha Stolyarov, CEO, AFFOA.

Following the Industry Day, participants will submit material information and samples for evaluation by experts from AFFOA, government, industry and defence sectors.

Up to three semi-finalists will receive US$ 5,000 each and move to an independent testing and validation phase. The final winner will receive an additional US$ 5,000 award.

Beyond prize money, selected innovators will gain access to government stakeholders, technical evaluation support and opportunities to transition their technologies into future defence applications.

AFFOA will leverage its nationwide Fabric Innovation Network and advanced textile expertise to identify promising solutions and accelerate their movement from research to commercial deployment.

The challenge highlights the growing role of advanced textiles in defence, where smart fibres, functional fabrics and high-performance materials are becoming critical for next-generation protective equipment.

“Protecting the warfighter requires continuously identifying and advancing innovative materials that address evolving operational threats,” said Dr. Sasha Stolyarov, CEO, AFFOA. Following the Industry Day, participants will submit material information and samples for evaluation by experts from AFFOA, government, industry and defence sectors. Up to three semi-finalists will receive US$ 5,000 each and move to an independent testing and validation phase. The final winner will receive an additional US$ 5,000 award.