Abstract
QuadGard™ arm and leg protection systems were developed to better protect key areas of arms
and legs from blast fragments. The purpose of this investigation was to use sweating thermal manikin
Walter™ and examine the intrinsic clothing insulation (Rcl), intrinsic clothing evaporative resistance
(Recl), micro-climate temperature, and moisture retention of three QuadGard™ systems (QG II,
QG IV Ventilated, and QG IV Not Ventilated) constructed with two ballistic materials, Dyneema1
and Kevlar1. With similar protection level, the ballistic material Dyneema1, consistently measured
lower in Rcl and Recl than the ballistic material Kevlar1, indicating body armor made with ballistic
material Dyneema1 is more comfortable. There was no significant difference between QG II and
QG IV Ventilated in Rcl and there was no significant difference between the three armor systems in
Recl. This indicated that design features have the potential to reduce thermal stress on the human
body when protective clothing is necessary.