Applications/Uses of Aramid (Kevlar) Polymers

• Kevlar is five times stronger than steel, yet it is extremely lightweight. Kevlar does not rust or corrode and it absorbs vibrations readily. Kevlar is expensive because special precautions are necessary to handle the concentrated sulfuric acid used in its production.
• Kevlar breaks down when exposed to the ultraviolet rays in sunlight. Dry-cleaning agents bleach, and repeated washing can affect Kevlar negatively also. To protect against these problems, the layers of Kevlar in bullet-resistant vests have fabric coverings to prevent exposure to sunlight and moisture.
• Kevlar is made in three common grades: Kevlar, Kevlar 29, and Kevlar 49. Kevlar is typically used in tires. Kevlar 29 is used in body armor, industrial cables, asbestos replacements, and brake linings. Kevlar 49 is used in applications such as plastic reinforcement for boat hulls, airplanes, and bicycles.
• Most North American police officers engaged in frontline law enforcement now wear bullet-resistant vests. However, as the name implies, bullet-resistant vests do not prevent injury from edged weapons that police officers may encounter, such as knives, arrows, or ice picks. Because the force of a blow from such weapons is focused on a very small area, knives and other pointed objects can penetrate many layers of Kevlar causing injury or death. However, specially designed vests that protect against edged weapons are often worn by correctional officers.
• Kevlar is used in many other industries to make such items as badminton and tennis rackets, helmets and bulletproof vests. It can also be used to make gloves that are extremely strong and resistant to being torn or cut. Blankets made out of Kevlar are used to protect individuals from blasts from explosions or fire. As Kevlar continues to gain in popularity, it will likely be used in many other industrial applications.
• Many boats have parts made out of Kevlar. It is used in boat hulls of many types of watercraft, as well as in some canoes made entirely out of the material. These canoes are resistant to being punctured by rocks are other elements in nature. Windsurfing vessels and sailboats often have sails made out of Kevlar due to the fact that it is difficult to tear, even in high wind.
• Kevlar was initially created as a material to be used in automobile tires to prevent damage along with wear and tear. The material is still used in this application, as well as in many engine parts that need to have a high heat resistance and tensile strength. Kevlar is also used in engines and fuel lines in high performance race cars that require strength and heat resistance.
• Kevlar is currently used in a variety of applications in both airlines and spacecraft. It is used as a protective material in airplane cockpits in case of debris or an emergency landing. It is used in fuel systems to create stronger lines that will not break as easily. Kevlar has many uses in commercial airlines in a variety of parts as well as in high-speed aircraft used by the U.S. government.