Teijin Aramid stops researching aramid copolymers containing DAPBI

Teijin Aramid announced that it is stopping its research program to develop and commercialize aramid copolymers containing DAPBI.

The Netherlands-based manufacturer of high-strength fibers has been working with several international partners to develop and commercialize aramid copolymers containing DAPBI. The program was aimed at further improvement of the performance of aramid polymers, mainly for anti-ballistic applications. The developed prototype materials had a strong anti-ballistic performance, but usage of this substance could be dangerous to people involved in the production of the monomer and copolymer.

Teijin Aramid’s current polymer for its flagship para-aramid product, Twaron, contains two monomers (building blocks) called PPD and TDC. In copolymer yarn, part of the PPD is replaced by a different building block called DAPBI to achieve a further reduction in weight of personal body armor at the same threat level.

Teijin Aramid will continue to develop anti-ballistic products with improved performance like Twaron Ultra Micro, the world’s first ultra-microfilament fiber which was launched in January 2013.

Source: Teijin Aramid