The SAFEGUARD project is focused on the development of advanced textile materials with multiple protective properties that will improve the safety and efficiency of users in demanding and high-risk environments. It is an innovative research and development venture aimed at integrating fire-resistant, antimicrobial and UV-protective functionalities into textiles, while ensuring safety for the user and the environment.
Modern military and protective operations require personnel to operate for long periods in harsh conditions, where standard textiles often do not provide a sufficient level of protection. Existing solutions have a number of limitations: poor fire resistance and rapid flame spread in the event of explosions or flammable materials; insufficient protection against UV radiation, which increases the risk of burns and long-term health consequences; susceptibility to microorganisms, which favors the development of infections and reduces hygiene conditions; limited durability of the coating, which is washed off after washing or degraded under adverse conditions; potential toxicity of the chemicals used, with risks to health and the environment. In the context of security challenges, but also growing demands for sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions, there is a clear need for innovative approaches to the development of multifunctional textiles.
The SAFEGUARD project has four key objectives. Develop fire-resistant textiles that reduce the risk of burns and increase user safety in fire or explosion conditions. Improve UV protection to reduce the impact of harmful radiation, especially during prolonged outdoor exposure. Introduce antimicrobial properties that will limit the growth of bacteria and fungi, thereby improving hygiene and reducing the possibility of infections. Ensure the safety and durability of the developed materials through non-toxic and environmentally friendly approaches, wear resistance and stability after repeated washing.
The conceptual framework of the project is based on innovative solutions that enable strong and permanent bonding of protective coatings to textile fibers. This achieves stability and functionality in long-term use, even in extreme conditions. The project also includes an interdisciplinary approach that combines expertise in materials chemistry, microbiology and biomedicine. In this way, it is ensured that the developed materials are not only functional, but also safe for human health and compliant with environmental standards.
SAFEGUARD brings together teams from Croatia, Switzerland and Austria. Each partner contributes to the project according to its specialization. The Croatian partner leads the development and optimization of new coatings, the Swiss partners conduct systematic microbiological testing of the effectiveness of the coatings, and the Austrian partners examine the biocompatibility and safety of the developed materials. This model of cooperation allows the pooling of knowledge and resources from different disciplines and ensures a comprehensive verification of the functionality, safety and durability of the developed solutions.
Although the primary purpose of the project is to strengthen the safety of military personnel, the results have a much wider applicability in various sectors. In the military sector for the development of uniforms, protective equipment, tents and other textile solutions. In emergency services for equipment for firefighters, police and medical personnel. In healthcare for microorganism-resistant textiles for hospitals and field ambulances. In civilian life for materials for sports and outdoor equipment with additional safety features.
The SAFEGUARD project represents a strategically important step forward in the field of protective textiles. By developing materials that combine fire resistance, UV protection and antimicrobial properties, while guaranteeing safety and sustainability, the project responds to today's key security challenges. The combination of interdisciplinary research, international collaboration and a clear focus on practical results ensures that SAFEGUARD does not remain just at the level of laboratory research, but lays the foundation for real changes in practice.
Ultimately, the project contributes to building a safer, more resilient and sustainable society in which soldiers, healthcare workers, firefighters and many other professionals can perform their duties with greater levels of protection and reliability.
