Fiber Innovation
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.
Thermore, a company in thermal insulation, has introduced Ecodown Fibers T2T. The new free-fibre insulation is produced entirely from recycled…
Eurojersey, Lycra have collaborated to launch Empowered Play, a new approach to functional apparel where technical performance and comfort come…
Graphene-X has introduced its first women’s clothing collection, expanding its use of graphene-integrated fabrics beyond the men’s and unisex products.
In the German research project bioPEtex, BB Engineering is collaborating with several partners to develop textiles made entirely from bio-based…
Chapoget has partnered with Bcomp for advanced ampliTex flax fibre composites to develop the Cabin Trunk, a modern reinterpretation of…
Epoch Biodesign has joined the T2T Alliance to support the development of regulatory systems that can help expand textile-to-textile recycling…