Abstract: A method for improving the translation efficiency of fiber strength into composite strength is provided. A single unidirectional tape, single unidirectional fiber web or a stack of unidirectional web/unidirectional tape plies formed from partially oriented fibers/tapes is primed under mild conditions followed by subjecting the primed plies to an axial extension stress in the axial fiber direction of each fiber ply by passage through a compression apparatus. The axial extension stress extends the fibers, strengthening them, while also compacting the plies together and thereby forming a composite having improved strength. Production yield is improved by avoiding maximal fiber stretching and thereby avoiding typical manufacturing loss, and low weight composite armor having increased strength is achieved.

Abstract: A method for improving the translation efficiency of fiber strength into composite strength is provided. A single unidirectional tape, single unidirectional fiber web or a stack of unidirectional web/unidirectional tape plies formed from partially oriented fibers/tapes is primed under mild conditions followed by subjecting the primed plies to an axial extension stress in the axial fiber direction of each fiber ply by passage through a compression apparatus. The axial extension stress extends the fibers, strengthening them, while also compacting the plies together and thereby forming a composite having improved strength. Production yield is improved by avoiding maximal fiber stretching and thereby avoiding typical manufacturing loss, and low weight composite armor having increased strength is achieved.

Abstract: Viscoelastic, lightweight composite armor that is resistant to backface deformation, and to a method for evaluating the effectiveness of composite armor in resisting backface deformation. The index of retraction of a composite is determined by evaluating the degree of composite retraction at the site of impact of projectile after movement of the projectile is stopped. The degree of retraction indicates the ability of the composite to resist backface deformation.

Abstract: Viscoelastic, lightweight composite armor that is resistant to backface deformation, and to a method for evaluating the effectiveness of composite armor in resisting backface deformation. The index of retraction of a composite is determined by evaluating the degree of composite retraction at the site of impact of projectile after movement of the projectile is stopped. The degree of retraction indicates the ability of the composite to resist backface deformation.

Abstract: Highly uniform woven fibrous structures formed from fibrous tapes, wherein the tapes constitute the warp and weft tapes of a woven fabric. The individual fibrous tapes may be woven or non-woven, and may be formed as narrow tapes or may be cut from a wider fabric web.

Abstract: An improved process for solution spinning of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW PE) filaments, wherein the 10 wt % solution of the UHMW PE in mineral oil at 250° C. has a Cogswell extensional viscosity and a shear viscosity within select ranges.

Abstract: A robust process for the continuous preparation of solutions of high molecular weight UHMW PO that is capable of producing strong materials at high production capacity, is conservative of capital and energy requirements, and the articles made therefrom.

Abstract: Gel-spun multi-filament polyethylene yarns possessing a high degree of molecular and crystalline order, and to the drawing methods by which they are produced. The drawn yarns are useful in impact absorption and ballistic resistance for body armor, helmets, breast plates, helicopter seats, spall shields, and other applications; composite sports equipment such as kayaks, canoes, bicycles and boats; and in fishing line, sails, ropes, sutures and fabrics.

Abstract: Gel-spun multi-filament polyethylene yarns possessing a high degree of molecular and crystalline order, and to the drawing methods by which they are produced. The drawn yarns are useful in impact absorption and ballistic resistance for body armor, helmets, breast plates, helicopter seats, spall shields, and other applications; composite sports equipment such as kayaks, canoes, bicycles and boats; and in fishing line, sails, ropes, sutures and fabrics.

Abstract: Gel-spun multi-filament polyethylene yarns possessing a high degree of molecular and crystalline order, and to the drawing methods by which they are produced. The drawn yarns are useful in impact absorption and ballistic resistance for body armor, helmets, breast plates, helicopter seats, spall shields, and other applications; composite sports equipment such as kayaks, canoes, bicycles and boats; and in fishing line, sails, ropes, sutures and fabrics.

Abstract: Gel-spun multi-filament polyethylene yarns possessing a high degree of molecular and crystalline order, and to the drawing methods by which they are produced. The drawn yarns are useful in impact absorption and ballistic resistance for body armor, helmets, breast plates, helicopter seats, spall shields, and other applications; composite sports equipment such as kayaks, canoes, bicycles and boats; and in fishing line, sails, ropes, sutures and fabrics.

Abstract: A process for drawing essentially diluent-free gel-spun polyethylene multi-filament yarns in a forced convection air oven and the drawn yarns produced thereby, The process conditions of draw ratio, stretch rate, residence time, oven length and feed speed are selected in specific relation to one another so as to achieve enhanced efficiency and productivity. The drawn yarns are useful in armor, composites, fishing line, ropes, sutures, fabrics and other applications.