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Kevlar
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Learn how synthetic materials in astronauts' suits help them survive the hostile environment of space
U.S. soldiers wearing Kevlar helmets and ceramic-reinforced Kevlar vests and neck protectors while approaching a building in Sāmarrāʾ, Iraq, 2004.
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Kevlar

chemical compound
Also known as: poly-para-phenylene terephthalamide
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History
Learn how synthetic materials in astronauts' suits help them survive the hostile environment of space
Learn how synthetic materials in astronauts' suits help them survive the hostile environment of spaceLearn about some of the synthetic materials—nylon, Dacron, Mylar, Kevlar—from which space suits are made.
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Kevlar, trademarked name of poly-para-phenylene terephthalamide, a nylonlike polymer first produced by Du Pont in 1971. Kevlar can be made into strong, tough, stiff, high-melting fibres, five times stronger per weight than steel; it is used in radial tires, heat- or flame-resistant fabrics, bulletproof clothing, and fibre-reinforced composite materials for aircraft panels, boat hulls, golf-club shafts, and lightweight bicycles.

The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThis article was most recently revised and updated by Adam Augustyn.