Tech Talk

August 2005

Laminate Offers Thug, Terrorist Shield

edited by Robert H. Williams

A fiberglass laminate that not only offers ballistic protection, but also is ricochet resistant, can now protect vehicles, aircraft, buildings and bank teller stations. Called BRASS, this bullet proofing material is being produced by Norplex-Micarta of Pottsville, Iowa.

Lighter than steel, it can be cut and installed with ordinary tools, says a company spokesman, who adds that the material is flame and smoke resistant. BRASS’s ballistic rating has been validated by both the National Institute of Justice and the Federal Aviation Administration.