Thermal Tarpaulin Sheet

[Timelord]

If it is the same as one I have :-

I have a desert one from the 1st Gulf war I think. I picked it up cheap years ago. Eventually I cut it in two to make 2 mansized pieces. I have used it that way quite a few times and it makes an excellent thermal slightly padded personal groundsheet.

Upon cutting it open I found it consisted of 2 outer canvas layers that had a P.U. coating inside to make them waterproof. One note to mention here is that this does not stop the canvas itself taking in water and becoming heavier as a result. However the water does not pass through. This also means the complete item is not breathable. An important point to remember.

Inside were 2 unbleached layers of wool - thin army blanket style. Excellent insulation properties. Underneath these 2 layers of wool and immediately preceding the inner canvas layer was a fine layer/sheet of silver metallic filament woven material. This was fine. almost silk like in thickness/appearance but a bit stiffer. This was basically a v.fine mesh and was breathable.

I have considered in the past including this as a lining in a survival coat, but eventually realised the heat build up would not be good. Therefore I do see it's usefulness as a fine tarp type affair that could be used personally on its own for stealth or survival reasons or as combined with a shelter to the same effect. This mesh weighs almost nothing, whereas the complete tarp is quite heavy and not ideal for a BOB - but v.useful to be carried in a vehicle or for a base OP etc.

Maybe this info will help any deliberations. TL.