New Fabric Provides Improved Performance and Safety for Parachutes

Posted Monday, October 30, 2000

WILMINGTON, Del., Oct. 12, 2000-Prolonged exposure to heat and ultraviolet (UV) rays can take a toll on the fabric used for hot air balloons and parachutes. Since performance and safety are on the line with each flight, DuPont has introduced an improved SolarMax® high-tenacity nylon fiber to create superior balloon envelopes and parachute canopies.

As the result of DuPont enhanced polymer technology, the new SolarMax® is up to two times more durable than fibers previously available. DuPont SolarMax® yarns use a base type 6,6 nylon that outperforms type 6 nylon and polyesters of similar fabric construction. Fabrics made with SolarMax® provide superior resistance to damaging heat and UV radiation, which translates into longer fabric life. With deep, brilliant dyeing characteristics that create outstanding color saturation, SolarMax® fabrics retain their colors and graphics when others have paled in comparison.

That's why companies such as Aerostar International of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Performance Designs Inc. of DeLand, Florida, prominently feature DuPont SolarMax® fabrics in their balloon envelopes and parachute canopies.

In the high-performance demands of ballooning and parachuting, strength, UV resistance and fabric permeability are critical factors. Hot-air balloons, exposed to harsh sunlight, wet weather and wide temperature changes, require a strong construction material. High-tenacity
nylon fabric, such as Aerostar's Diamond Weave(tm) balloon cloth, made with DuPont SolarMax® nylon, is strong, colorful and can be made into beautiful flying machines. Parachute and sportchute canopies of DuPont SolarMax®, the only U.S.-made nylon fiber for parachute fabric, take advantage of the built-in strength of the fabric. Parachutists trust and rely on this crucial product quality every time they jump. Performance Designs' chutes are used by more competitors in more disciplines than any other brand of parachute in the world.

DuPont is a science company, delivering science-based solutions that make a difference in people's lives in food and nutrition; health care; apparel; home and construction; electronics; and transportation. Founded in 1802, the company operates in 70 countries and has 94,000 employees.