The US Army Uses SPF Foam to Cool Tents

In the sweltering Iraqi desert temperatures reach highs of 130 degrees Fahrenheit, and US Army tents don't provide much relief, even with air conditioning. In fact, even with air conditioning, the poorly insulated tents were often still over 100 degrees Fahrenheit inside. These were hardly livable conditions for soldiers.

A Honeywell crew applies SPF foam to US Military tents. The foam will seal, insulate, and protect the tents from the severe desert climate. Both cost savings and living improvements are expected with the completion of the $12.5 million dollar project.

900 Air Conditioned Tents Were Sprayed With Foam

In 2009 the U.S. Military began applying polyurethane spray foam to 900 air conditioned tents. Honeywell completed the 12.5 million dollar project. TerraStrong polyurethane foam was pumped from 55 gallon drums and applied to the surface of the tents. The foam conforms to the surface of the tents, sealing and insulating from the external elements and rays of the sun, keeping the tents substantially cooler. The rigid polyurethane foam also provides structural support as well.

SPF Foam: A Fast, Efficient, Mobile Solution

Joseph Lstiburek, a building scientist and indoor air quality expert, told discovery news: "For the Army, there is no other solution even close to this given speed, flexibility, mobility". "You don't have to ship lots of big pieces of stuff around. Think about it: a big tent insulated on the exterior that acts as a combined water control layer, air control layer, vapor control layer and thermal control layer that is also structural."

Soldiers sleep on cots in 8-10 person tents at joint service station Al Sheeb. 2" of polyurethane foam provides both insulation and structural support for the tents.

US Military Anticipates 25% to 30% Cost Savings

The military expects to associated reduce air conditioning costs by at least 25 to 30%. The project is part of 2009-2015 initiative to improve the efficiency of military facilities and improve the quality of life for both troops and civilians.

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