ProQares rejoins TNO and strengthens testing capacity for CBRN protection

Thema:
Safe society
9 January 2026

As of 9 January 2026, ProQares has once again become part of TNO. ProQares is an independent Dutch laboratory specialising in the testing and certification of personal and collective CBRN protection equipment. With the acquisition of ProQares’ shares, TNO strengthens its position in the field of resilience, security and defence, further expanding its testing and innovation capacity in this domain.

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'By reintegrating ProQares into TNO, we are combining unique expertise and testing capacity. This enables us to innovate more rapidly and support our partners even more effectively in developing safe and reliable protection solutions in a world where threats are becoming increasingly urgent and complex.'

Frans van Gemerden

Director of the Protection, Munitions & Weapons division at TNO

Leading in CBRN protection testing and certification

ProQares originated within TNO and became an independent laboratory in 2010. Since then, it has developed into an internationally recognised leader in material and system testing for protective clothing, gloves, boots, respiratory protection and COLPRO systems that safeguard against toxic industrial chemicals and chemical warfare agents.

The ProQares laboratory is equipped with advanced facilities and operates as a reference laboratory, working with actual toxic compounds, including chemical warfare agents. ProQares provides independent testing, expert advice and innovative, tailor-made testing solutions to companies and governments worldwide. It also supports clients in certification processes by conducting accredited tests and evaluations required to meet national and international standards and market approval requirements.

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'ProQares will continue as an independent company within TNO. This allows us to further develop and future‑proof our expertise and facilities. At the same time, we will continue to provide our clients with high‑quality testing services that are essential for the safety of people and the environment.'

Mark de Jong

Managing Director of ProQares B.V.

Combining expertise

The integration of ProQares by TNO aligns with TNO’s renewed strategy to further strengthen its position in the field of resilience, security and defence. This combination creates a powerful synergy of research, innovation and testing capacity. As a result, TNO can respond more quickly to the growing demand for reliable and independent CBRN testing capacity in an increasingly complex security environment.

Ypenburg location

As part of this integration, ProQares will relocate from Rijswijk to a new site on the TNO campus in Ypenburg during the first half of 2027. Throughout this transition, close cooperation with all partners will ensure continuity of service.

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