Kevlar® is an extremely strong material that derives its strength from its weave. It is woven like tiny spider webs. Stephanie Kwolek and Herbert Blades created this special material in 1965 for the Dupont Company. Since then it has been used in a number of ways.

Kevlar® is a special way of weaving a liquid into a solid. This is called an aramid weave. Aramid fibers tend to be difficult to corrode, resistant to heat, and have no melting point. Aramid fibers like Kevlar® may be slightly corrosive if exposed to chlorine.

Because Kevlar® is light, it is the premium choice for bulletproof vests. A variant of Kevlar® called nomex is fireproof and may be used by fireman or people responding to disaster situations.

Kevlar® has different types of weaves, and the weave that makes a fabric-like material for vests is called Kevlar® 29. Kevlar® 29 may also be used in brake pads, or to replace asbestos. It is also is a major part of the composition of body armor.

Kevlar® has two other types, Kevlar® and Kevlar® 49. Kevlar® may be used to replace rubber items like tires. Kevlar® 49 is extremely strong and can replace the more traditional materials used for a boat hull, or be used in simple items like bicycle frames.

Currently, one of the most interesting applications of Kevlar® is its use in shelters for protection against tornadoes. The material is used in a shed-like structure that can be placed in a garage. Tests show it can deflect large materials at speeds of up to 250 mph (402.32 kph). In areas with frequent tornadoes, Kevlar® shelters may become the best way to protect against strong tornadoes.

Under great compression Kevlar® can buckle, and in some cases, be pierced. For example, people quickly found a way to make bullets that could pierce bulletproof armor. These are illegal for sale to consumers. However, a nation’s army, to provide additional strength in ground combat, may use them.

In general, however, Kevlar® offers many opportunities for protection and for replacement of materials more likely to corrode. Thus one can expect still more Kevlar® products in the future.