Aramid

Aramid fiber (1961) is a synthetic fiber, a fire-resistant polyamide, is a favorite for aerospace and military; bullet-proof protective "armor" fabric, as well as an asbestos substitute.

A well-known type of aramid fiber (a para-aramid) is commonly known by its Dupont trade name, Kevlar.

Table of contents

1 Aramid fiber characteristics
2 Major Industrial Aramid Fiber Uses
3 Production
4 See also

Aramid fiber characteristics

sensitive to degradation from ultraviolet radiation
good resistance to abrasion, chemical degradation, and thermal degradation
nonconductive
no melting point
low flammability
good fabric integrity at elevated temperatures
para-aramid fibers such as Kevlar and Twaron, which have a slightly different molecular structure, also provide outstanding strength-to-weight properties, high tenacity and high modulus.

Major Industrial Aramid Fiber Uses

flame-resistant clothing
protective vests and helmets
composites
asbestos replacement
hot air filtration fabrics
tire and mechanical rubber goods reinforcement
ropes and cables
sail cloth
sporting goods

Production

The Federal Trade Commission definition for Aramid fiber is "A manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polyamide in which at least 85 percent of the amide linkages are attached directly to two aromatic rings."

Aramid fiber is produced by spinning a solid fiber from a liquid chemical blend.

First U.S. Commercial Aramid Fiber Production: 1961, DuPont Company

Current U.S. Aramid Fiber Producers: DuPont Textiles & Interiors