What is Kevlar®?
Pushing the limits of protection, performance and strength
Created by Stephanie Kwolek, DuPont™ Kevlar® is a heat-resistant para-aramid synthetic fiber with a molecular structure of many inter-chain bonds that make Kevlar® incredibly strong. Best known for its use in ballistic body armor, Kevlar® also has many other applications because of its high tensile strength-to-weight ratio.
Stephanie Kwolek: stronger than steel
A pioneer in polymer research, Stephanie Kwolek accumulated several patents and awards throughout her career. Most notably, she is known for her groundbreaking work that led to the creation of Kevlar® - an incredibly strong material that continues to push the limits of possible.
Tensile strength
The chemical structure of Kevlar® is comprised of several repeating inter-chain bonds. These chains are cross-linked with hydrogen bonds, providing a tensile strength can be up to 10X stronger than steel* on an equal weight basis.
*Results may vary as there are multiple types of steel with varying tensile strengths and multiple types of Kevlar® yarn with varying tensile strengths.
Ballistic resistance
Kevlar® fibers are so tightly spun that it is nearly impossible to separate them. When a bullet or other high-velocity projectile hits Kevlar®, the fibers essentially catch the projectile while absorbing and dissipating its energy.
Cut & puncture resistance
Due to the fully extended and perfectly aligned molecular chains within Kevlar® fiber, Kevlar® provides a strong protective barrier against slashes, cuts and punctures.
Heat resistance
Kevlar® is inherently flame resistant—protecting against thermal hazards up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, Kevlar® fibers won’t melt, drip or support combustion.
