Aramid fibers are man-made high-performance fibers, with molecules that are characterized by relatively rigid polymer chains. These molecules are linked by strong hydrogen bonds that transfer mechanical stress very efficiently, making it possible to use chains of relatively low molecular weight.
The term “aramid” is short for “aromatic polyamide”. Aromatic polyamides were first applied commercially as meta-aramid fibers in the early 1960s, with para-aramid fibers being developed in the 1960s and 1970s.
Aramid fibers share some general characteristics that distinguish them from other synthetic fibers:
- High strength
- Good resistance to abrasion
- Good resistance to organic solvents
- Non-conductive
- No melting point
- Low flammability
- Good fabric integrity at elevated temperatures
These unique characteristics derive from the combination of having stiff polymer molecules with a strong crystal orientation as well as close interaction between the polymer chains due to the hydrogen bonds.
Advantages of Aramid Fiber
Aramid main advantages are high strength and low weight. Like graphite, it has a slightly negative axial coefficient of thermal expansion, which means aramid laminates can be made thermally stable in dimensions. Unlike graphite, it is very resistant to impact and abrasion damage. It can be made waterproof when combined with other materials like epoxy. It can be used as a composite with rubber retaining its flexibility. High tensile modulus and low breakage elongation combined with very good resistance to chemicals make it the right choice for different composite structural parts in various applications.
Aramid Fiber Disadvantages
On the other side, aramid has a few disadvantages. The fibers absorb moisture, so aramid composites are more sensitive to the environment than glass or graphite composites. For this reason, it must be combined with moisture resistant materials like epoxy systems. Compressive properties are relatively poor too. Consequently, aramid is not used in bridge building or wherever this kind of resistance is needed. Also, aramid fibers are difficult to cut and to grind without special equipment (e.g. special scissors for cutting, special drill bits). Finally, they suffer some corrosion and are degraded by UV light. For this reason they must be properly coated.
Aramid Fabrics Manufacturing Expert
If you need more information about aramid fabrics, I recommend that you can visit the website of TEI. Taiwan Electric Insulator was established in 1978 as a manufacturer of aramid fabrics, including aramid fiber fabric, ballistic aramid fabric and colored aramid fabric.
The aramid fabric features flame resistance, outstanding shock absorption, and superb engineering benefits to all manners of manufacturing and design in the composite industry. To go with the ever-changing requirements, TEI is dedicated to development and innovation of aramid fabric to meet the highest level of customers’ satisfactions. Find more details about aramid fabric, please do not hesitate to send inquiry to TEI.
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