Morristown, N.J.-based Honeywell has developed Spectra Shield® II, a new line of ballistic materials for body and vehicle armor that incorporates Honeywell’s Spectra S3000 fiber, produced from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene using a patented gel-spinning process. The materials provide up to 20-percent greater ballistic performance than the company’s first Spectra Shield line, according to the company.

Spectra Shield products, which are produced by bonding parallel fiber strands in place with an advanced resin system, are used in an array of advanced armor systems that incorporate such products as bullet-resistant vests, breast plates, helmets, military aircraft and vehicles.

“Our armor materials have been used to protect military and police personnel for nearly 20 years,” said Joe Gelo, business director, Advanced Fibers and Composites, Honeywell. “We continue to invest in improving our materials to meet the future performance requirements of advanced military and law enforcement agencies.”

Honeywell has upgraded several lines to produce Spectra Shield II and will invest in additional upgrades as demand dictates.

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September/October 2007