Abstract: An improved friction material includes inorganic fibers formed from a melt of volcanic black rock and additives. The black rock comprises silica oxide, magnesium oxide, potassium permanganate, aluminum oxide, iron oxide, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, sodium oxide, and boron. The additives include potassium permanganate and boron. As a result of their composition, the fibers are temperature resistant and lightweight, yet strong. The fibers exhibit a melting point between 1500 degrees centigrade and 1650 degrees centigrade, a working range of ?130 degrees centigrade to 700 degrees centigrade, a density of 1.8 g/cc, a surface density between 160 g/m2 and 350 g/m2, and a tensile strength between 500 lbf/in2 and 1800 lbf/in2. The friction material is made from layers of the inorganic fibers and a bonding material and has a working temperature between 250 degrees centigrade and 650 degrees centigrade, with a melting point of approximately 1200 degrees centigrade.

Abstract: A light weight body armor is constructed from offset layers of mosaic like panels. The panels are formed from woven material made from volcanic black rock. The panels are light weight and strong, and the woven material is less expensive than know materials used to construct body armor.

Abstract: An improved friction material includes inorganic fibers formed from a melt of volcanic black rock and additives. The black rock comprises silica oxide, magnesium oxide, potassium permanganate, aluminum oxide, iron oxide, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, sodium oxide, and boron. The additives include potassium permanganate and boron. As a result of their composition, the fibers are temperature resistant and lightweight, yet strong. The fibers exhibit a melting point between 1500 degrees centigrade and 1650 degrees centigrade, a working range of ?130 degrees centigrade to 700 degrees centigrade, a density of 1.8 g/cc, a surface density between 160 g/m2 and 350 g/m2, and a tensile strength between 500 lbf/in2 and 1800 lbf/in2. The friction material is made from layers of the inorganic fibers and a bonding material and has a working temperature between 250 degrees centigrade and 650 degrees centigrade, with a melting point of approximately 1200 degrees centigrade.