A green start-up has developed a process to recycle body armour fibres, which could reduce emissions and save money, the Ministry of Defence has said.
The Ministry of Defence has announced that London-based green tech start-up Uplift360 has developed a process to recycle end-of-life body armour fibres.
Uplift360 has received almost £500,000 of DASA (Defence and Security Accelerator) funding. The DASA is part of the Ministry of Defence and finds and funds companies to support UK defence.
Minister of State for Defence, Baroness Goldie, commented: “The process designed by Uplift360 is a really good example of how new and intelligent thinking can transform old practices in Defence.
Their innovative approach could reduce wastage, save money and secure supply without compromising on high-quality kit for our armed forces.
“Their innovative approach could reduce wastage, save money and secure supply without compromising on high-quality kit for our armed forces. I look forward to seeing their important work continue to help Defence make even more progress toward reducing emissions.”
When body armour used by soldiers expires, it is currently incinerated, The Ministry of Defence says. Uplift360’s new process breaks down the body armour fibres – often referred to as Kevlar, which is a strong, heat-resistant synthetic fibre used in armour. The Ministry of Defence says Kevlar is estimated to be 85 times more expensive than steel.
The process preserves the fibre’s strength so it can be recycled back into the supply chain, the Ministry of Defence says. In the future, this process could lead to substantial cost savings for Defence, the UK government says.
Uplift360’s recycling system makes sure that the fibres remain “highly versatile” for reuse after recycling. The fibres have the potential to be reintroduced back into the supply chain, the Ministry of Defence says, including in airplanes, land vehicles, flame and heat resistance clothing, stab/cut proof clothing, ropes, fibre optics, backpacks and tyres.
Supporting Uplift360 clearly shows DASA’s commitment to help achieve a more sustainable future.
Commenting on the new process, Jamie Meighan, Uplift360 Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, said: “DASA has been instrumental to the success of Uplift360. From a concept to our initial investment to creating our groundbreaking technology in our labs, DASA has been there every step of the way.
“As a Veteran/Spouse start-up, it was very important from the outset to find funding, mentors and support that understood us as a business, saw the potential of our technology and believed in it.
“Supporting Uplift360 clearly shows DASA’s commitment to help achieve a more sustainable future, maintain resiliency and save money for Defence.”
The Ministry of Defence says it’s continuing to support the government’s net zero targets while maintaining military capability, through initiatives such as using sustainable aviation fuel, electric vehicles and piloting solar farms.
