A multifunctional, nanoengineered chemical finish for possible use in U.S. Army combat uniforms is to be developed by an Arkansas technology company.

NanoMech, which is partnered with the University of Arkansas, said the technology will be based in its proprietary and patent-pending technology platform, nGuard, an additive for a wide variety of textile fabrics.

The additive is breatheable and flash flame resistant and has superior antimicrobial properties to improve immunity against infectious bacteria and microbes, the company said.

"Given its excellent multi-functional performance, the nGuard platform can be utilized in a variety of military, civilian, sports, recreation, clothing, and industrial applications," said Dr. Ajay P. Malshe, founder, executive vice president and chief technology officer of NanoMech.

"This extreme innovation will provide the U.S. Army better combat uniforms to tackle their most challenging environmental encounters."

NanoNech's continued development work comes under a $235,000 contract from the Army Project Manager Soldier Protection and Individual Equipment office.