What Makes Kevlar Bulletproof

In 1965, while working on the synthesis of new lightweight yet strong materials for use in tires because of the anticipated gasoline shortage, Stephanie Kwolek at DuPont accidentally discovered Kevlar-the registered trademark name of para-aramid polymers used in bulletproof vests and other armor applications. Kevlar was later found to be stronger than steel.

The exceptional strength-to-weight properties are brought by the peptide/amide bond, which confers structural rigidity and resistance to hydrolysis. In addition to having the exceptional properties of a covalent bond, the peptide bond displays strong intermolecular interactions such as the hydrogen bonding of the carbonyl groups, which, together with the aromatic pi-pi stacking interactions, are indispensable for making Kevlar one of the most used synthetic materials in different industries.

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