France has awarded a €3 million ($3.52 million), seven-year contract to SilMach, a tech company based in Besançon, to develop a shock-detecting microsensor for use in bulletproof vests.
The sensor will serve as a self-monitoring device for the ballistic plates embedded in protective vests, which are made of layered composites and brittle ceramic materials that may fracture if dropped — potentially reducing protection effectiveness.
The energy-free sensor will feature a built-in visual indicator to alert users to possible damage, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional testing methods and ensuring soldiers can easily assess the integrity of their gear in the field.
