Bullet proof... I wish I was
Oxford's technology transfer arm, Isis Innovation, has developed a new, lighter body armour for product and commercial development.
The new bullet-proof vest differs from the conventional because it both deflects and absorbs bullets by incorporating a metal alloy capable of 'bouncing off' the projectile, while subsequent layers dissipate the impact of the blow.
According to Project manager, Dr David Eastham: "When a bullet hits, it will tend to fall off rather than keep trying to penetrate." Furthermore, the new material should allow for a lighter, thinner and more comfortable design.
In the last year, both immigration and front-line officers have been issued with bullet-proof vests following a number of fatal or near-fatal incidents, and investment will probably not be a problem.
Dr Eastham told The OxStu that the main "challenge will be to get a company that can manufacture the material...not a trivial task."
3rd Apr 2004