To obtain the optimum combination of fragment-stopping performance and light weight, the Republic of Korea has selected protective helmets featuring DSM Dyneema’s HB26 ultra-strong polyethylene fibre for its army, the company announced.

The 24,000 helmets, manufactured by Samyang Comtech in Seoul, offer up to 20 per cent weight savings compared to conventional aramid helmets, together with a higher ballistics performance when using the v50 test.
“This significant programme is a volume milestone for Dyneema HB26 in a helmet application, and demonstrates the acceptance of the material based on its excellent fitness for use in helmets,” a DSM Dyneema spokesman said.
“To support growing demand for its ballistics protection materials, as evidenced by the South Korean Army’s large order, DSM Dyneema is on plan to significantly boost capacity for Dyneema UD (unidirectional) composites used in life protection. Additional capacity in both yarn and UD material has been brought on stream at its Greenville, North Carolina, facility. DSM Dyneema is on target to double global capacity for UD in 2009, as part of a $450 million investment announced earlier,” he said.
“Dyneema HB26 is a unique, lightweight composite providing superior ballistic protection for both personnel and vehicles. With significant weight reduction vs aramid, Dyneema HB26 increases helmet comfort and wearability, and allows the addition of ancillary equipment such as a visor or communications gear without overburdening troops. The composite also provides a combination of excellent mechanical rigidity and toughness, with resistance to temperature extremes and moisture, and positive buoyancy in water for marine protection,” the spokesman added.