How a lightweight synthetic fiber stops bullets without weighing down the wearer

What is kevlar, and why is it so strong? - Max G. Levy · 5:16 · Video: TED-Ed · Watch at the source

In short: Discover the chemistry behind Kevlar, the material that revolutionized personal protection. This video explains how a flexible, synthetic fiber can withstand high-velocity impacts, a technology famously demonstrated by Richard Davis, who survived hundreds of close-range shots to prove his invention's effectiveness.

Kevlar is a synthetic fiber known for its remarkable strength-to-weight ratio, allowing for the creation of flexible bulletproof vests. The material was invented in the mid-1960s, providing the foundation for modern protective gear.

The effectiveness of this technology was highlighted by Richard Davis, who by 1975 had been shot 192 times at close range during product demonstrations. These tests showcased how the material absorbs and disperses energy, keeping the wearer safe despite the intensity of the impact.

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