Bowman’s BowstringsDSM’s (website) super-strong ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMwPE) fiber branded as Dyneema® offers maximum strength with minimum weight. This makes the number of possible applications virtually unlimited.
Dyneema® fiber is produced in a patented gel spinning process in which the fibers are drawn, heated, elongated, and cooled. Stretching and spinning lead to molecular alignment, high crystallization, and low density. Dyneema® has extremely long molecular chains that transfer load more effectively to the polymer backbone. So it’s stronger at the same weight or lighter at the same strength than alternatives.
Dyneema® fiber is 15x stronger than steel at the same weight, with a tensile strength up to 43 cN/dtex. As well as its extraordinary strength, Dyneema® excels in cut and abrasion resistance and has a high resistance to chemicals and UV. Dyneema® fiber is so light that it floats on water and furthermore has a very high modulus (resistance against deformation). Dyneema® is available in a wide range of titers (fiber thickness), from 50 to 6600 dtex, making the fiber suitable for many applications.
