Researchers at Cornell University and the University of California, Davis, have discovered a method that stitches together porous membranes and bacteria-killing polymer molecules called halamides. "Halamides are chemically the same as the disinfectant used in swimming pools," says Gang Sun, a professor of textiles and clothing at the University of California, Davis. "They are safe for contact with the skin, kill bacteria, and absorb odor."

These hybrid materials will now be applied as a coating to fabric, thereby trapping and killing deadly agents such as anthrax. "This will give the ultimate protection," said Sun. "We can absorb, trap, and kill the bacteria."

Ultimately, Sun said, these garments could safeguard soldiers, medical workers, and civilians from harm. He and Kay Obendorf, a textiles chemistry professor at Cornell who specializes in the surface chemistry of fibers, are working with the National Textile Center to develop fabrics for agricultural workers exposed to pesticides. They also plan to test their new fabric on medical and military staff this year, and to commercialize the fabric by 2008.