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What Is Nomex?

Nomex®, a DuPont product, is a polymer that forms a durable but flexible fiber. Its performance in high-temperature environments makes it an ideal material for protecting people and equipment from heat and flame.

  1. Description

    • Nomex® is a high molecular weight polymer known as a synthetic aramid. Forcing the polymer through a device called a spinnerette produces a filament.

    Properties

    • Nomex® can tolerate high temperatures and flame without melting or dripping. It can also withstand exposure to a wide range of chemical compounds.

    Form

    • Nomex® is available as a high-performance fiber, fabric, felt, paper or pressboard. Honeycombed composites that include Nomex® are lightweight yet strong and stand up to harsh environments.

    Uses

    • Nomex® is best known for its role in firefighting. Heat- and fire-resistant garments and equipment made from Nomex® protect firefighters as well as pilots, military personnel, race car drivers and others who may encounter heat or flame in their line of work. Nomex® also provides thermal and electrical insulation for transformers, generators and other industrial equipment.

    History

    • In 1953, while working for the DuPont Company, Scottish-born chemist Wilfred Sweeny discovered a new polymer fiber that could withstand high temperatures. Wayne Sorenson subsequently developed a process that enabled DuPont to begin producing the fiber commercially in 1967.

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