Barnsley company in bid to make armour for MoD

A BARNSLEY company that has developed a super strong material says it is being tested for use as body armour for soldiers.

The material - initally created to make the manufacture of pottery more cost-efficient - is developed by XeraCarb.

It can withstand extreme heat, up to 1500 oC, and possesses great strength. It is being assessed for use as personal body armour with the research sponsored by the Ministry of Defence.

XeraCarb plant manager, Roshan Aucklah, said: “The product could reduce the burden on the infantry soldier, which is especially important in hot environments, and has the potential to be used in a number of armour systems, including vehicle armour.”