The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support’s Product Test Center Analytical has developed an artificial hand to improve safety during glove testing.

The 3D-printed hand allows researchers to test the integrity of gloves without risking exposure to hazardous materials.

“A while back, we were asked to test some gloves that are specifically designed to protect the hands of people who work with jet fuel,” said Edward Dalton, a test center general engineer, who had the idea to create the 3D model. “One of the tests dictated that a tester put on a glove, put their hand in a bucket full of jet fuel, then flex their fingers repeatedly. If the glove leaks, it fails the test.”

The results of a failed test could be detrimental to the tester.

“A leaking glove also means the tester just got jet fue

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