Specialists have developed a nanotube armor material that is stronger than Kevlar

The development of new technologies is constantly improving the characteristics of bulletproof materials. Experts at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed an ultralight armor nanofiber material that surpasses steel and Kevlar in strength.

It is based on tiny, atom-thick carbon nanotubes, which are next-generation materials that will be used in a wide range of applications, including high-tech armor.

The material was obtained by synthesizing Kevlar nanofibers, which were integrated in small quantities into the carbon nanotube plates in a strictly defined ratio, followed by the formation of hydrogen bonds between the fibers.

The material was tested with a special laser system that “shot” micro-shells into the armor samples at different speeds. The results confirmed high impact resistance characteristics, surpassing steel and Kevlar fabric. According to scientists, the new material could be used as an impact-absorbing coating for spacecraft to protect against space debris.