Full definition
A para-aramid synthetic fiber (poly-paraphenylene terephthalamide) developed by DuPont, offering exceptional tensile strength (3,600 MPa — 5x stronger than steel on a weight basis), high modulus (112-186 GPa), low density (1.44 g/cm³), excellent cut and heat resistance (decomposes at ~500°C without melting), and remarkable energy absorption. Kevlar is a brand name; the generic term is aramid fiber per ISO 2076. Grades: Kevlar 29 (ballistics, ropes), Kevlar 49 (composites, highest modulus), Kevlar 149 (ultra-high modulus). Applications in industrial context: belt tension cords (premium timing belts and V-belts — provides minimal elongation and highest strength), cut-resistant industrial gloves (ANSI cut level A4-A9), conveyor belt reinforcement, composite reinforcement for pressure vessels, body armor, and aerospace structures. Limitations: poor UV resistance (must be protected from sunlight), poor compressive strength, absorbs moisture. Competitors: Twaron (Teijin), Technora (Teijin). Per MIL-DTL-44050 for ballistic applications.