New AFRL Chamber Enhances Equipment Performance in Extreme Environments

September 1, 2025

Air Force Research Laboratory
Wright Patterson Air Force Base, OH
937-522-3252
www.afrl.af.mil

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house for the new Research Environmental Chamber (REC) in May. The capability, part of AFRL’s Human Effectiveness Directorate, facilitates equipment and human performance evaluations with control over environmental extremes as well as close observation of subjects.

“The REC is a critical addition to AFRL’s research capabilities and a key Department of Defense resource,” said Brig. Gen. Robert K. Bogart, 711th Human Performance Wing commander. “This state-of-the-art chamber allows us to rigorously test both equipment and human performance, ensuring we’re prepared for the challenges of the future fight, wherever it may lead us.”

The REC allows researchers to simulate a wide range of conditions, including temperatures from minus 60 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity levels from 10 percent to 95 percent. The chamber accommodates up to four people and can simulate rain at a rate of 4 inches per hour.

“Understanding performance limitations of the warfighter and the equipment they use in extreme operational environments is necessary to develop mitigation strategies, ensuring mission success,” said Dr. Jennifer Schwanekamp-Kerr, REC primary investigator, AFRL Human Effectiveness Directorate.

Heavy equipment can be tested in the REC with the floor and entry rated for 600 pounds per square foot. The chamber’s stainless steel interior features a removable chemical distribution chamber, access ports for wires, tubing, cables and grated floors. An antechamber prevents disruptions in the test environment by serving as a buffer between the entrance and the main chamber.

“The REC will allow researchers to simulate deployed conditions within a controlled laboratory setting, generating critical data to inform warfighter monitoring, operational guidance and the development of risk mitigation tools,” Schwanekamp-Kerr said.

The addition of the REC reflects AFRL’s broader mission to ensure the long-term readiness and resilience of U.S. research capabilities.

“A critical mission for AFRL is maintaining our nation’s science and technology research infrastructure for air and space,” Air Force Research Laboratory Commander Brig. Gen. Jason E. Bartolomei said. “This facility plays an important role in that effort.”

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