Our first production run of mittens was sold out before New Year's. Eventually, about 70,000 emergency blankets that use the new insulation technology are expected to be distrib-uted annually by Thermalon Industries. A program to demonstrate the unique attributes of the blanket was begun with NASA Ames' Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team. Also planned is a full evaluation of the blankets in concert with ambulance companies and American Red Cross chapters. Yet another commercial product is emerging from the space program work.
Mittens are now in production that are warmer than wool and made from recycled plastic.
The mittens are designed for people in extreme cold weather, including recreational, industrial, and military users. Informal field testing of the mittens has been carried out in the frozen climes of Antarctica, Miller reports. Silk is used as a glove lining for greater breathability and extra comfort. Glove palms use a rubberized material for better grip. Since hands perspire more than other parts of the body, handwear often gets damp and this moisture greatly increases heat loss from the hands.