Polybenzoxazole Fibers: a Class of Heteroaromatic Polymers Possessing High Thermal Stability
Polybenzoxazole fibers, commercially known as Zylon, are one of the strongest synthetic fibers having high thermal stability, high tensile strength, and flame resistance, making it suitable for several applications. These fibers are twice as strong as amid fibers (Nomex and Kevlar), and around 10 times stronger than steel, which makes them the strongest manmade organic fiber. Polybenzoxazole fibers are high-performance, heat-resistant fibers with benzene-fused oxazole ring structure. Moreover, it has a 100°C higher decomposition temperature compared to aramid and exhibits very little creep under stress making it suitable for high continuous loads. These properties are highly desirable for sporting equipment of all kinds.
According to the Coherent Market Insights the Polybenzoxazole Fibers Market Size, Share, Trends, and Forecast 2019–2027
Polybenzoxazole was first developed in the 1980’s and is one of the strongest synthetic fibers available. It is also the first organic fiber whose cross-sectional strength outperforms both steel and carbon fiber. These fibers are primarily used for aerospace and military applications. In addition, Polybenzoxazole fibers are increasingly used in consumer products and the public’s awareness of their benefits is increasing. These fibers are widely used in sports apparel, where flexibility and low self-weight are desirable characteristics. They are also used in Formula One racing, where they help prevent airborne wheel movement. Moreover, they are used in fishing rods, cycling spokes, tennis racket strings, and protective jackets.
The monomer used to prepare Polybenzoxazole is bis-o-aminophenol. Bis-o-aminophenol is a scarce compound. But it is possible to produce high-quality Polybenzoxazole fibers. They have good tensile strength and are durable, while being non-toxic. Another type of Polybenzoxazole fiber is four-six-diamino resorcinol, which is a blend of benzene and oxalic acid. It is also used in semiconductor chips, such as in chips and in microelectronics. In addition to being used in a semiconductor chip, Polybenzoxazole is also used in a protective film. It has excellent light transmittance at 365 nm and is widely used for medical devices. Its antibacterial activity also makes it an excellent choice for medical equipment.
In the aerospace industry, Polybenzoxazole fibers are often used to protect astronauts against the effects of high altitude. These fibers exhibit high tensile strength and high thermal stability, making them ideal for space applications. Due to the fibers’ high flexibility, they are also used in fishing lines, bicycle spokes, and tennis racket strings, among others. Polybenzoxazole fibers are heat-resistant thermoplastic. It has a benzene-fused oxazole ring structure and is twice as strong as aramid fibers. Its decomposition temperature is 100degC higher than that of aramid fibers. It also exhibits less creep when stressed and is suitable for high continuous loads. But this unique thermoplastic material is expensive and difficult to produce.
Polybenzoxazole fibers are known for their strength and are twice as strong as amid fibers and around ten times stronger as compared to steel. These fibers are part of synthetic fibers, which exhibit excellent mechanical properties such as high tensile strength and low self-weight. Due to this, they find applications in reinforced materials. Moreover, Polybenzoxazole fibers are suitable for high humidity working conditions, and find applications in space elevators, military applications including body armor, conductive textiles, and motorsport applications.
