Defence

 

Participation in the #UTILEProject aims to develop technologies to apply circular strategies for the recovery and reuse of different personal protective equipment (PPE) used by the armed forces of EU Member States. With bulletproof panels from helmets and bulletproof vests that are no longer in service, we produce new panels for new ones, recycling through the Circular Economy.

We also recycle advanced textiles with critical fibres. Recycled PBO and PBI textiles from HILATURAS ARNAU BARCELONA, using unique technology for high-performance applications in Defence and Protection. It is our European solution for the manufacture of certified recycled fabrics, providing:

Strategic autonomy as they are produced in Spain, without external dependence.
Sustainability by reducing environmental impact through recycling.
Extreme performance, exceeding the maximum thermal protection of Radiant Heat Resistance (ISO 11612.2020) by being C4, the highest possible rating.

Detailed Comparison

PBO (poly-p-phenylene benzobisoxazole):

  • High tensile strength: PBO fiber is known for its exceptional tensile strength, surpassing aramid fiber and PBI in this regard.
  • Heat resistance: It offers excellent resistance to heat and flames, with a relatively high decomposition temperature.
  • Dimensional stability: It maintains its shape and dimensions even at high temperatures, making it suitable for applications that require dimensional precision.
  • Applications: Used in applications such as personal protective equipment (helmets, flame-retardant suits), composite reinforcements, high-strength cables and ropes, and aerospace components.

PBI (polybenzimidazole):

  • High-temperature resistance: PBI fiber stands out for its exceptional resistance to high temperatures, even higher than PBO fiber.
  • High-temperature strength retention: Unlike other fibers, PBI maintains its mechanical strength at very high temperatures, making it ideal for applications in extreme environments. Low thermal conductivity: It has low thermal conductivity, meaning it does not easily conduct heat, which is beneficial for thermal insulation applications.
  • Applications: Used in protective suits for firefighters, high-temperature gaskets and seals, and as reinforcement in composite materials for aerospace applications.

Key Differences

  • Tensile strength: PBO fiber generally has higher tensile strength than PBI fiber.
  • Heat resistance: PBI fiber can withstand higher temperatures than PBO fiber, although both offer excellent heat resistance.
  • Dimensional stability: PBO fiber is known for its excellent dimensional stability, while PBI fiber also maintains its shape at high temperatures but may be more flexible in some cases.
  • Applications: PBO fiber is often used in applications requiring high tensile strength and dimensional stability, whereas PBI fiber is more suitable for applications requiring extreme heat resistance and thermal insulation.

If you would like advice or additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us. You will receive a prompt response.