Polybenzimidazole
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PolyBenzImidazole or PBI fiber (1983) is a synthetic fiber with no melting point that also does not ignite. Due to its exceptional thermal and chemical stability, it is often used by fire departments and space agencies.
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PBI fiber characteristics
- continuous temperature: 1,000°F (540°C)
- melting temperature: 1,400°F (760°C)
- no melting point (in flame tests)
- will not ignite or smolder
- retains fiber integrity and suppleness up to 1,000°F
- low shrinkage and high strength retention when exposed to high temperature
- high char yield
- dyeable to dark shades with basic dyes following caustic pretreatment
- mildew and age resistant
- abrasion resistant
- low thermal conductivity
- resistant to most chemicals
- low electrical conductivity and low static electricity buildup
- resistant to sparks and welding spatter
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Major Industrial PBI Fiber Uses
- high-performance protective apparel such as:
- firefighter turnout coats and suits
- astronaut space suits
- high temperature protective gloves
- welders' apparel
- race car driver suits
- braided packings
- aircraft wall fabrics
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Production
The Federal Trade Commission definition for PBI fiber is "A manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long chain aromatic polymer having recurring imidazole groups as an integral part of the polymer chain."
PBI is prepared by step-growth polymerization from tetra-aminobiphenyl and diphenyl isophthalate spun via a dry spinning process using dimethyl acetamide as the solvent.
First U.S. Commercial PBI Fiber Production: 1983, Celanese Corporation
Current U.S. PBI Fiber Producers: Celanese Corporation
