Polyphenylene Benzobisoxazole (PBO), Zylon®, is a premium fiber with high performance properties like the aramid fiber family (Kevlar® and Nomex®) but stronger. It’s the strongest fiber on the market to-date, it is six times stronger than Kevlar and ten times stronger than steel.
Like para-aramids, PBO nonwoven technical fabric is flame and high-temperature resistant, with an operating temperature of 1202°F (650°C). These properties, along with its heat extraction capabilities, make it a good choice for thermal and safety protective apparel interlinings, such as safety gloves, firefighter garments, and heat shields. PBO’s thermal properties allow it to be used as an insulator for electrical cables.
PBO has excellent mechanical stability, keeping its form under high-stress applications. It also offers exceptional cut resistance, minimal temperature shrinkage, high abrasion resistance, and good resistance to a wide range of chemicals. PBO is an expensive fiber, however, using it in small amounts in combination with other fibers can enhance the performance of the fabric. PBO loses strength in environments with exposure to UV light and moisture.
Albarrie uses PBO nonwoven technical fabric in its Defender Series Heat Felt products for high-heat conveyance, such as aluminum extrusion, glass tempering, and metal coil processing. We can produce fabrics between 5.89 and 103 oz/yd2 (200 – 3500 g/m2) in thicknesses between 0.039 – 0.472441 in (1-12 mm).
