84--Request for Information on Recycled Materials for DOD Clothing and Individual Equipment

The U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development & Engineering Center (NSRDEC), Natick, MA, Clothing and Configuration Management Team is seeking the expertise of the textile industry in identifying recycled yarn/materials with possible application for clothing and individual equipment. Per National Defense Authorization Fiscal Year 12 Report, the Army is looking into the industry's ability to use fabric scraps generated in manufacturing process, combine them with post-consumer plastic water bottles and generate recycled yarn for usage in a wide variety of military materials/products. Recycled yarns could be used as a whole or in a blend with other fibers while maintaining current performance requirements such as the Army Combat Uniform material (MIL-DTL-44436), the load bearing equipment material (GL/PD 10-07) or any other suggested materials by industry. In addition, the Army is also depending on industry to identify shortfalls in using recycled materials such as physical and colorfastness properties, dying, finishing and printing capabilities, comfort and durability. The government is conducting this market investigation to characterize industry's ability to provide recycled fabrics that meet the performance requirements for a wider range of military clothing and individual equipment. Interested companies are requested to submit information within thirty (30) days following the publication of this RFI. Any relevant company background/experience, and any other information that the company believes demonstrates their value / ability to meet the aforementioned requirements should be included. Requests for material documents should be e-mailed to [email protected]. Respondents must be registered in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) database and provide a DUNS number. Firms may register for CCR at www.ccr.gov. All information and evaluation results will be controlled and used for governmental purposes only. Responses to this notice are to be sent to U.S Army Natick Soldier Research, Development & Engineering Center, Attn: RDNS-WPW-C [Ms. Celia Powell], 15 Kansas St., Natick, MA 01760-5019. This notice is for information only. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR QUOTATIONS. No solicitation document exists for this action. POC for this request is Celia Powell (508) 233-5802, FAX (508) 233-5266 or email [email protected]