An Exceptionally Strong Fiber Best Known For Manufacturing Bulletproof Vests.
ALTERNATIVES
NONE
DESCRIPTION
Aramid is a high-performance synthetic fiber made from aromatic polyamide. There are two types of aramid – Nomex, which is chemical, electrical, and fire resistant; and Kevlar, which is extremely strong and usually gold in color. Aramid fibers can be very strong yet lightweight.
HISTORY
The name aramid is a short for “aromatic polyamide”. Aramid was first created at DuPont by Stephanie Kwolek during the 1930s. In the 1970s, it was used commercially to replace steel in racing tires.
CHARACTERISTICS
- Lightweight and stiffer than glass
- Highly tear and cut resistant with excellent ballistic properties
- Flame resistant
- Sensitive to UV
- Chemical resistant but sensitive to acids
- Non-Conductive