Vectran

Vectran is a high-performance multifilament yarn spun from liquid crystal polymer (LCP). Vectran fiber exhibits exceptional strength and rigidity and is five times stronger than steel and ten times stronger than aluminum by weight. The fiber’s positive characteristics include high abrasion resistance, excellent flexibility, minimal moisture absorption, excellent chemical resistance, low coefficient of thermal expansion, and high impact resistance.

LCP polymer molecules are stiff, rodlike structures organized in ordered domains in the solid and fluid states. Vectran fiber is formed by meltextrusion of the LCP through fine diameter capillaries, during which the molecular domains orient parallel to the fiber axis. Based on their superior microstructure, Vectran fibers are used in high-demand applications where other materials fail to perform, including aerospace, ocean exploration and development, electronic-support structures, recreation and leisure industries, safety materials, industrial applications, ropes and cables, composites, protective apparel, and high-pressure inflatables.

Contact: Kuraray America, Inc., Fort Mill, SC.
Find more information in Transmaterial 2.