Dyneema, which has just launched a new website and brand identity, has developed a next-generation unidirectional (UD) material based on its third-generation fibre.

The latest Dyneema fibre has an even higher-tenacity, resulting in increased ballistic stopping power when used in the new UD material, Dyneema SB301, for protective armour applications.

The improvement in performance enables body armour manufacturers to design soft armour vests 10–20% lighter than previous protective solutions.

“In every situation, weight is now considered to be the top priority after ballistic stopping power,” said Marcelo van de Kamp, global business director for personal protection at Avient, the owner of Dyneema. “That’s because survivability is directly tied to weight savings when speed and agility determine outcomes. This new product is the latest demonstration of our commitment to both innovation and protection.”

Dyneema SB301 surpasses the performance of Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology, which itself marked a radical step-change in ballistic performance.

Beyond strength, Dyneema SB301 has the additional advantage of being made from bio-based Dyneema fibre, which enables a carbon footprint up to 90% lower than generic high modulus polyethylene (HMPE) fibres.

“With Dyneema, end-users don’t have to choose between sustainability and protection,” said van de Kamp. “This is a critical differentiator for Dyneema as governmental agencies look to implement stricter environmental regulations around CO2 emissions for the personal protection market.”

Dyneema SB301 material is currently manufactured in Greenville, North Carolina, in compliance with the Berry Amendment for the US market, with launches in additional markets to follow.

www.dyneema.com