New Dyneema SB and HB concepts for protective gear

27-May-10

DSM has introduced new Dyneema SB (soft ballistic) and HB (hard ballistic) concepts for protective gear certified to German law enforcement requirements. Dyneema SB is used in a new concept for high-comfort, covert vests that protect against handgun ammunition, fragments and knives; and meet the German SK 1 standard for weight below 500 kilograms per square meter. Dyneema HB comprising UHMWPE was developed for use in inserts, shields and helmets to protect against heavier, more penetrating threats and high-caliber rifle threats. Inserts based on Dyneema HB80 are laboratory-certified up to the German SK 4 standard, providing optimal protection levels but weighing 20-percent less than conventional hard armor gear. Helmets and ballistic mandible guards made with Dyneema HB meet German military standards.