Smart-Fiber Technology Activates When Needed for More Thermal Protection
WILMINGTON, Del., March 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- DuPont (NYSE: DD) today announced the latest offering in advanced fibers with DuPont(TM) Nomex(R) On Demand(TM), a new patented smart-fiber technology that gives firefighters up to 20 percent more thermal performance when they encounter emergency conditions.
The term "smart-fiber technology" refers to the ability of the new material -- initially for use in thermal liners in firefighter turnout gear -- to detect emergency conditions and automatically expand to trap more air for greater thermal insulation. In emergency conditions, air temperatures can exceed hundreds of degrees. Nomex(R) On Demand(TM) is specifically engineered to react and expand when temperatures reach 250 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Yet in routine conditions, thermal liners made with Nomex(R) On Demand(TM) remain thin and flexible, providing excellent thermal protection and good mobility. Once activated, Nomex(R) On Demand(TM) continues to provide maximum thermal protection, when and where it is needed.
"DuPont(TM) Nomex(R) On Demand(TM) is the first smart-fiber technology that helps protect lives," said Thomas G. Powell, vice president and general manager -- DuPont Advanced Fiber Systems. "It is a great example of our commitment to market-driven science -- matching our many years of experience in high-performance fibers with an understanding of the evolving needs of the fire services industry. We are committed to protecting firefighters and other emergency responders with innovative products that will help enable them to perform their jobs as safely as possible."
The new technology is commercially available in the United States and Canada and will be available globally in late 2009. While initially available in firefighter gear, DuPont is reviewing additional applications for Nomex(R) On Demand(TM) including auto racing, where 95 percent of today's drivers wear suits made of DuPont(TM) Nomex(R); wildfire control; oil and gas operations; and military uses. DuPont estimates the demand for fire protection gear in the United States alone totals almost $300 million.
Nomex(R) On Demand(TM) has been tested by DuPont, its customers and independent third parties. In addition, it meets National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and has been certified for use by Underwriters Laboratories.
DuPont(TM) Nomex(R) was the first flame-resistant fiber used in firefighter gear. Prior to its introduction in 1967, firefighters had limited protection. Both Nomex(R) and DuPont(TM) Kevlar(R) brand fibers are used in the fire services industry, with proven inherent flame protection, durability and comfort. About 70 percent of the thermal protection in a firefighter's turnout coat comes from materials using Nomex(R) and Kevlar(R).
DuPont is committed to helping protect firefighters and other first responders with science-based innovations such as flame-resistant fibers, chemical protective suits, and other personal protective technologies. The company provides leading apparel brands for protection from thermal, ballistic, chemical, biological and cut/abrasion threats. Brands such as DuPont(TM) Nomex(R), Kevlar(R), Tyvek(R) and Tychem(R) have been protecting people around the world for more than 40 years.
DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.
Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements based on management's current expectations, estimates and projections. All statements that address expectations or projections about the future, including statements about the company's strategy for growth, product development, market position, expected expenditures and financial results are forward-looking statements. Some of the forward-looking statements may be identified by words like "expects," "anticipates," "plans," "intends," "projects," "indicates," and similar expressions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors, including those discussed more fully elsewhere in this release and in DuPont's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, particularly its latest annual report on Form 10-K, as well as others, could cause results to differ materially from those stated. These factors include, but are not limited to changes in the laws, regulations, policies and economic conditions of countries in which the company does business; competitive pressures; successful integration of structural changes, including acquisitions, divestitures and alliances; research and development of new products, including regulatory approval and market acceptance, and seasonality of sales of agricultural products. The company undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements as a result of future developments or new information.
3/17/09
The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont(TM), The miracles of science(TM), Nomex(R) On Demand(TM), Kevlar(R), Nomex(R), Tyvek(R) and Tychem(R) are registered trademarks or trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates.
Video - DuPont Introduces Nomex(R) On Demand(TM) to better protect firefighters:
(For high-resolution video, contact Cathy Andriadis at 302-774-4249.)
Animation - DuPont(TM) Nomex(R) On Demand(TM) activates when needed: http://www2.dupont.com/Personal_Protection/en_US/assets/downloads/nomex/nod_animation/shell.html?src=nod_prn_03_17_09_animation
Backgrounder: DuPont(TM) Nomex(R): http://sn.im/dy6w1-dd
To view a multi-media version of this release, please go to: http://sn.im/dy8ue-dd
SOURCE DuPont
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