UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI, MISSISSIPPI, USA. A heat proof camouflage face paint is a very useful innovation that will shield soldiers and firemen from extreme heat. In addition to that, waves of pressure coming from bomb blasts can be balked.

The research was funded by the US Department of Defense at the University of Southern Mississippi. Its main goal is to provide protection to soldiers during bomb blasts through their traditional camouflage face paint. The challenge is that the usual face paint is made up of oil and wax. This combination is flammable and causes more damage to soldiers.

Heat coming from bomb blasts can exceed 600°C. In cases of fire, the heat is lethal as well and can even reach more than 1000°C. What the researches did was to replace the carbon base in face paints with silicone which is a non-flammable material. It even absorbs heat produced by intense flames.

As mandated by the Army, the face paint must be water proof and can ward off bugs. In this case, DEET, was added to fend of bugs. Since DEET is flammable, a hydrogel was placed around it. The new face paint formula will give soldiers and firemen ample time to move away from burning areas since it can withstand intense heat for 15 seconds. Their hands and feet will be protected before any mild or first-degree burns occur.

Currently, a colorless version of the face paint is being developed for the use of firefighters. Also, a formula is being developed to fire-proof tents and clothes.