I saw the movie, Hurt Locker, and wondered how that bomb suit could protect someone from death. Dvice has a great piece up that explains just that.
The so-called explosive ordinance disposal suit has two layers, one rigid, one soft that protect against the shockwave (actually the more dangerous of the two) and the shrapnel. The pressure wave from the bomb can flatten organs and collapse lungs.
The rigid layer is made from strain-rate sensitive materials called aramids that get harder as something hits them faster. It's able to deflect some or all of the forces from the pressure wave. A foamy layer underneath absorbs any remaining pressure from the blast wave, reducing it to a level that -- one hopes -- the body can survive.
A soft armor worn closest to the body works like a bullet-proof vest, stopping any fragments that could harm a body.
In addition to the suit, the bomb technician also wears a helmet and collar, hard body armor plates that protect the torso, groin and thighs, boots and gloves. Although the article says that technician often do not wear the gloves while disarming a bomb, since they need the dexterity and nimbleness of hands and fingers.
The coolest part, literally, is a flame-resistant inner layer that circulates ice water around the suit wearer, keeping him cool. A battery powers the suit's water circulation pump as well as a lamp, fan and a communication link.
The suit weighs 60 to 70 pounds, which, if you ask me, is light compared to the weight on one's shoulders when disarming a bomb.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Tags: Military Inventions, Movies
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