Researchers at Peking University, China, have developed a new composite material that surpasses Kevlar in strength, toughness, and ballistic resistance while being much thinner. The breakthrough, published in Matter, addresses the long-standing challenge of achieving both high strength and high toughness in protective fibers.

The new material combines a heterocyclic aramid, similar to Kevlar, with treated long carbon nanotubes (tl-SWNTs). Using a precise multi-step stretching process, scientists aligned the polymer chains and nanotubes in parallel, creating a tightly bonded structure that resists slippage and efficiently absorbs impact energy.

Ballistic testing revealed the super-fiber’s dynamic strength exceeds that of existing fibers, while its energy absorption, measured at 706.1 megajoules per cubic meter, doubles previous records. When woven into fabric, it demonstrated superior anti-ballistic performance compared to current protective textiles. The researchers say the innovation could lead to lighter, thinner, and more effective protective gear for future applications in defense and personal safety.