News
U.S. Army tents don't provide much relief from the heat of the Iraqi desert, where temperatures can soar to highs of 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Even with air conditioning, soldiers are lucky to crank things down to a sweltering 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
To cool down sweaty troops and improve energy efficiency, the U.S. military recently began coating 900 air-conditioned tents with spray-on insulating foam. The specialized polyurethane foam, called TerraStrong, will further shield the soldiers’ temporary homes against solar rays while preventing precious cool air from leaking out.
Workers spray the foam from 50 gallon drums. It hardens in roughly 20 minutes and delivers an energy savings of between 25 and 33 percent, according to manufacturers.
According to building scientist and indoor air-quality expert Joseph Lstiburek, the foam promises fast, flexible means of retrofitting both tents and permanent structures for higher energy efficiency.
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source: Discovery News, By Robert Lamb
