DSM Dyneema, known for its life protection materials and high-performance fibers, has won the 2014 WorldSafe Safety Product Innovation Award from the Safe America Foundation for the development of Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology. The award was presented to Hugh Welsh, president of DSM North America, on Saturday, Nov. 8 during the Safety on the Home Front Gala at the Delta Flight Museum in Atlanta. Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology delivers exceptional ballistic performance and the lightest weight and lowest profile for armor applications, according to the company.

Safe America Foundation Chief Executive Officer Len Pagano said this groundbreaking platform "will dramatically improve both personal body armor and vehicle armor used by police and military personnel worldwide. The life-saving protection that Dyneema has and continues to provide is incalculable."

"We are honored to receive this prestigious award for our Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology, which is making a meaningful difference in the safety of law enforcement officers and soldiers," said Welsh. "This innovative material is already demonstrating its superior ballistic performance, ultra light weight, and enhanced comfort in protective gear. We take pride in leading the life protection industry with visionary solutions to safeguard those in harm's way."

Built on the company's Radical Innovation Platform, Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology combines breakthroughs in polymer science, next-generation ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMwPE) fiber technology and unique uni-directional engineering. This platform avoids the traditional compromise between ballistic protection and light weight, offering top performance in both areas. Compared to body armor made from other materials, protective vests engineered with Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology can reduce weight by up to 30 percent, while enhancing comfort and agility with fewer layers of material.

About DSM Dyneema

DSM Dyneema is the inventor and manufacturer of Ultra High Molecular Weight PolyEthylene (UHMwPE) fiber branded as Dyneema, the world's strongest fiber. Dyneema offers maximum strength combined with minimum weight. It is up to 15 times stronger than quality steel and up to 40% stronger than aramid fibers, both on weight for weight basis. Dyneema fiber floats on water and is extremely durable and resistant to moisture, UV light, and chemicals. Dyneema is used in bullet resistant armor and clothing for police and military personnel.