Fibers formed from poly(1,3,4)-benzimidazole (PBI) have been spun, using the cotton system, into yarns and woven into a series of plain- and twill-weave fabrics. The high moisture regain (10-13%), good abrasion resistance, and high degree of heat-blocking, in addition to nonflammability in air, has resulted in PBI being considered for Air Force personnel protection systems.
Laboratory and field evaluation of PBI fabrics in protection system configurations compared to currently used fabrics demonstrated the superior nonflammability of PBI. Based on data obtained, extensive wear testing of flight coveralls is to be initiated.
Canciatoni, A.B., Chenevy, E.C., Bachner, T.C., and Prince, A. E. Jr., Polymerization and Spinning of PBI, in "Polymer Symposia," No. 19, New York, Interscience, 1967, pp. 49-64.
2.
Dawn, F.S., Nonmetallic Materials Development for Spacecraft Applications, NASA Conference on Materials for Improved Fire Safety, NASA Manned Spacecraft Center, Houston, Texas, May, 1970 .
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Maggio, R.C., A Molded Skin-Simulant Material with Thermal and Optical Constants Approximating those of Human Skin, Project 5046-3, Part 105, NavalMaterials Laboratory, New York Naval Shipyard, New York, 23 August 1956.
4.
Singleton, R.W., Noether, H.D., and Tracey, J.F., The Effects of Structural Modifications on the Critical Properties of PBI Fiber, in "Polymer Symposia," No. 19, New York, Interscience, 1967, pp. 65-76.
5.
Singleton, R.W., Properties of PBI Fiber, in "Applied Polymer Symposia, No. 9, High Temperature-Resistant Fibers from Organic Polymers," New York, Interscience, 1969, pp. 133-144.
6.
Radnofsky, M.I., New Materials for Manned Spacecraft, Aircraft and Other Applications, NASA Conference on Materials for Improved Fire Safety, NASA Manned Spacecraft Center, Houston, Texas, May, 1970.
