PBI

PBI (PolyBenzImidazole) 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 the love of astronauts and fire departments.

Table of contents

1 PBI fiber characteristics
2 Major Industrial PBI Fiber Uses
3 Production
4 See also

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

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
race car driver suits

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 reoccurring imidazole groups as an integral part of the polymer chain."

PBI is prepared 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