DuPont to launch production of innovative performance composite
26 Jun '06
2 min read
Production of an innovative DuPont material, offering industry and consumers performance breakthroughs in a range of rubber-based products, was officially launched Friday at the DuPont Research, Development and Engineering Center in Kingston, Ontario.
This innovative material is a composite of an elastomer and DuPont™ Kevlar® pulp. The strength of DuPont™ Kevlar® fiber, most frequently known for helping to save lives in bullet-resistant protective apparel - also provides significant performance improvements in this new form in products such as automotive, motorcycle and bicycle tires, hoses and belts, seals and gaskets, rubber-covered rolls, pump liners, diaphragms and molded goods.
"We are excited to officially launch the production of this innovative DuPont performance material in Kingston, which builds on our 50-year history of expertise in materials science, complex process development and successful commercialization of innovative products," said Nicolas Cudré-Mauroux, who leads the Kingston Research, Development and Engineering Center.
"The launch is a result of the outstanding commitment and professionalism of DuPont Kingston employees," Nicolas said. "We are seeking to build on this success and go beyond manufacturing to perform significant development work that will expand the use of this unique process to other applications."
Previous research in using this engineered elastomer with Kevlar® in automotive tires, for example, showed significant improvements in ride and handling, reduced rolling resistance and heat generation, and increased durability. Increased wear resistance is of special environmental interest, since it can help to extend the life of the tire. Similar results were achieved in bicycle and motorcycle tires, which also demonstrated improved puncture resistance.
DuPont is a science company. Founded in 1802 DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.