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Design and Development of Biodefense Helmet Covers: An Innovative Approach to Strengthening Biological Resilience in the Armed Forces
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Rasool Fattahipour1    , Simintaj Sharififar *2 , Kourosh Padidar3 , Kourosh Abbasiyan4 |
1- Health in Disasters and Emergencies Department, Nursing School, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2- Trauma Research Center, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran & Health in Disasters and Emergencies Department, Nursing School, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
3- Deputy for Health, Relief and Treatment, Tehran Greater Police Command, Tehran, Iran
4- Department of Management, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran |
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Abstract: (24 Views) |
Introduction: A key measure for mitigating the effects of biological threats is the development of appropriate protective equipment in advance of a crisis.
Objective: This study aimed to design and develop two prototypes of protective helmet covers: one for protection against mosquitoes and the other against dust. Designed for use with military helmets and uniforms, these products were developed to address bioterrorism threats and strengthen the armed forces’ biodefense capabilities.
Materials and Methods: This applied developmental study was conducted in 2024 through a review of scientific and technological literature using specialized keywords in reputable databases, followed by conceptual design and prototype fabrication. Two biodefense helmet-cover prototypes were designed and developed. They were assessed for functional performance, including ventilation and particle penetration, and evaluated at Technology Readiness Level 8 (TRL 8).
Results: Two protective helmet-cover prototypes—one mosquito-resistant and one dust-resistant—were designed and developed, and are ready for production. The mosquito-resistant cover prevents insect ingress without the use of chemicals, weighs 14 g, and can be easily attached and removed. The dust-resistant cover reduces the ingress of biological aerosols and particles smaller than 10 μm by 95%. It is made of multilayer spunbond and meltblown materials, incorporates a PVC shield, weighs 20 g, and offers adequate breathability. Both products are cost-effective to manufacture, can be rapidly produced at scale, and are fully compatible with the helmets and uniforms used by the armed forces.
Conclusion: Through the indigenous design of two protective helmet covers, this study addresses the shortage of personal protective equipment for emerging biological threats, with potential for use by large numbers of personnel. The products could be incorporated into the range of response options for biological threats. Both are ready for further quantitative and field studies to evaluate their effectiveness in the target population. |
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| Keywords: Biodefense, Disasters, Helmet Covers, Military Uniform Design, Resilience |
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Full-Text [PDF 1310 kb]
(1 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Technical Note/Developmental Study |
Subject:
Health in disasters and emergencies
Received: 2025/04/26 | Revised: 2025/12/10 | Accepted: 2025/12/13 | Published: 2026/06/30
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