DSM Dyneema, the manufacturer of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMwPE) fiber, branded as Dyneema, and producer of life protection materials and high-performance fibers for body and vehicle armor, has officially introduced DyneemaForce Multiplier Technology, built on its Radical Innovation platform.

DyneemaForce Multiplier Technology combines breakthroughs in polymer science, next-generation fiber technology, and distinctive uni-directional engineering to deliver up to 25% higher ballistic protection while reducing weight by up to 20%, according to the company.

At the Milipol 2013 trade show, three companies – Rheinmetall Ballistic Protection GmbH, Point Blank Enterprises and TenCate Advanced Armour – exhibited applications that feature the first Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology products. These initial applications demonstrate the capabilities of this new technology and set the stage for future innovations in soft and hard ballistic protection. All DyneemaForce Multiplier Technology products are manufactured at the DSM Dyneema facility in Greenville, N.C.

"We have eliminated the traditional compromise between higher protection and lower weight, enabling armor manufacturers to meet tomorrow’s threats and design challenges," says Shitij Chabba, global segment director of Life Protection at DSM Dyneema. "With off-the-chart ballistic performance combined with the lightest weight and lowest profile ever demonstrated, DyneemaForce Multiplier Technology will define future standards in life protection, including soldier modernization. This dramatically different technology is not just the first deliverable from our Radical Innovation initiative, it’s also a clear demonstration of our ongoing commitment to saving lives."

DSM Dyneema views adoption of next-generation material technologies as critical in addressing major law enforcement and military trends that are intensifying the need to reduce the weight of protective gear. DyneemaForce Multiplier Technology is designed to deliver benefits of significantly lighter weight – enhanced comfort and flexibility for people and greater range, agility, and capacity for vehicles – while providing extreme ballistic performance.

The new products based on DyneemaForce Multiplier Technology can be used to design personal protection (vests, inserts, helmets, soft armor applications, and extremity protection) and vehicle armor. Additional products based on this technology are planned.

About DSM Dyneema

DSM Dyneema is the inventor and manufacturer of Ultra High Molecular Weight PolyEthylene (UHMWPE) fiber branded as Dyneema. Dyneema offers maximum strength combined with minimum weight. Among its many uses, Dyneema is used in bullet resistant armor and clothing for police and military personnel.