DSM Dyneema, the manufacturer of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMwPE) fiber, branded as Dyneema, and world leader in life protection materials and high performance fibers, officially introduced Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology, built on its Radical Innovation platform, the company's newest product development program.

Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology combines breakthroughs in polymer science, next-generation fiber technology and unique uni-directional engineering to deliver up to 25 percent higher ballistic protection while reducing weight by up to 20 percent.

Here at Milipol 2013, three companies – Rheinmetall Ballistic Protection GmbH, Point Blank Enterprises and TenCate Advanced Armour – are exhibiting applications that feature the first Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology products. These initial applications demonstrate the exceptional capabilities of this new technology and set the stage for future innovations in soft and hard ballistic protection. All Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology products are manufactured at the DSM Dyneema facility in Greenville, N.C.

“We have eliminated the traditional compromise between higher protection and lower weight, enabling armor manufacturers to meet tomorrow’s threats and design challenges,” said Shitij Chabba, Global Segment Director, Life Protection, DSM Dyneema. “With off-the-chart ballistic performance combined with the lightest weight and lowest profile ever demonstrated, Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology will define future standards in life protection, including soldier modernization. This dramatically different technology is not just the first deliverable from our Radical Innovation initiative, it’s also a clear demonstration of our ongoing commitment to saving lives.”

DSM Dyneema views adoption of next-generation material technologies as critical in addressing major law enforcement and military trends that are intensifying the need to reduce the weight of protective gear. Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology delivers benefits of significantly lighter weight – enhanced comfort and flexibility for people and greater range, agility and capacity for vehicles – while providing extreme ballistic performance.

The new products based on Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology can be used to design personal protection (vests, inserts, helmets, soft armor applications and extremity protection) and vehicle armor. Additional products based on this technology are planned.