Description
Background : Abrasive blasting is a mission-critical process required for the sustainment of many essential U.S. Navy/DoD maritime and aviation assets. The main components comprising the current Abrasive Blasting Personal Protective Ensemble (ABPPE) are two coveralls: a nonwoven polyethylene inner layer and a woven cotton outer layer. Limitations of the current ABPPE include thermal burden (contributing to heat stress) and reduced flexibility and mobility. The current ABPPE is also disposable; a reusable ensemble is desired. The objectives of this effort are to identify materials to improve the ABPPE by the following means: reduce the thermal burden; improve mobility/flexibility; shield the user from fine particulates such as airborne dust, toxic heavy metal contaminants, and grit rebound; and protect from accidental blast exposure. Heavy metal contaminants can include nickel, chromates, and lead. The ability to clean or launder the materials will also be investigated. This Request for Information (RFI) is not intended to address head, respiratory, hands or foot protection. Description : The Navy Clothing and Textile Research Facility (NCTRF) in Natick, MA, is conducting a market survey seeking to identify materials for use as a replacement for the outer coverall and/or a commercial constructed garment for use as a single layer as a replacement for both the outer and inner coveralls. The material or material system must meet or exceed the baseline characteristics: See "Baseline Characteristics" attachment. Candidates :In response to this RFI, interested candidates are REQUIRED to submit all of the following to enable the Government to efficiently evaluate the viability and benefit of the proposed solutions: 1. A material description, to include product description, identification of fiber blend (including fiber percentages), performance characteristics, production lead time, fiber production location, yarn production location, production location, finishing location, and illustrations/photographs with corresponding descriptive information that best describes the material. Complete disclosure of chemical treatment if using topical finishes or coatings and applicable Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) shall be submitted. The finished cloth shall not present a dermal health hazard when used as intended. 2. Documentation for Berry Amendment, 10 USC 2533a; compliance is required. 3. An estimated unit cost per linear yard (specify width of material), which may be broken down by quantity reflecting economies of scale. 4. A minimum of five (5) yards in any color or print available. 5. Vendors shall submit available documentation pertaining to the materials demonstrating the advantages of the proposed solutions. 6. To reduce the life cycle cost, garments/materials that can be cleaned/decontaminated will be pursued. Materials that have been utilized for blasting or similar purposes that demonstrate the ability to be safely decontaminated in an environmentally friendly manner may be submitted along with substantiating documentation. 7. Commercial abrasive blasting ensembles may be submitted for evaluation, but are not required. If submitted, cost of the ensemble, any available system level test results (including test method utilized) and MSDS for all components must be provided. 8. Vendors shall provide a point of contact, phone number, and email address. Please submit responses by 25 October 2013 to the point of contact identified below. This RFI is solely for information and does not constitute a solicitation or the issuance thereof. All information received in response to this RFI that is marked proprietary will be handled accordingly. Responses to this RFI are not offers and cannot be accepted by the Government to form a binding contract. Any information or materials submitted will not be returned, and no payment will be made by the government for such information or materials.