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Chapter 9: Problem 54

Who fi rst synthesized Kevlar? What was the background and academic training of these scientists? Was the potential for using this polymer in radial tires immediately understood? What are other applications of Kevlar? Write a short report on the results of your fi ndings. Be sure to cite your sources.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Kevlar was synthesized by Stephanie Kwolek. She had a background in chemistry. Initially, the potential for Kevlar in tires was not clear, but it is used in bulletproof vests, helmets, and more.

Step by step solution

01

Identify the Scientist

Kevlar was first synthesized by Stephanie Kwolek in 1965 while working at DuPont.
02

Educate on the Scientist's Background

Stephanie Kwolek was an American chemist. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from the Carnegie Institute of Technology in 1946.
03

Assess the Initial Understanding of Kevlar's Applications

Initially, the potential for using Kevlar in radial tires was not fully understood. However, as research evolved, its strength and lightweight properties became more apparent.
04

Explore Other Applications of Kevlar

Kevlar is used in a variety of applications including bulletproof vests, helmets, fire-resistant clothing, and ropes, thanks to its exceptional strength and heat resistance.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Stephanie Kwolek
Stephanie Kwolek, a pioneering female chemist, was the brilliant mind behind the discovery of Kevlar in 1965. Her career at DuPont began after she completed her Bachelor of Science in chemistry from the Carnegie Institute of Technology. At a time when science was predominantly male-dominated, Kwolek鈥檚 achievement was groundbreaking and paved the way for future generations of women in science. Her work primarily involved polymer chemistry, where she meticulously studied the molecular structures crucial for synthesizing high-performance materials.
Polymer Science
Polymer science is the study of long chains of molecules called polymers that include plastics, rubbers, and synthetic fibers such as Kevlar. These polymers are made by linking together many monomers in a process called polymerization. Kwolek鈥檚 work with polymers involved developing a new type of polymer solution that led to the synthesis of Kevlar. By altering the structures at a molecular level, she managed to create a fiber five times stronger than steel, ushering in a new era of synthetic materials with enhanced properties. This breakthrough in polymer science is a testament to the power of chemistry to revolutionize materials engineering.
Applications of Kevlar
Kevlar鈥檚 exceptional properties, such as its high tensile strength and heat resistance, have led to its widespread use in various fields. Initially, the special applications of Kevlar weren鈥檛 fully realized, with its potential in radial tires being understood only after further research. Today, its applications have expanded significantly:
  • Bulletproof vests and helmets: Providing life-saving protection to military personnel and police officers.
  • Fire-resistant clothing: Safeguarding firefighters and other emergency responders.
  • Aerospace components: Contributing to the development of lightweight, durable aircraft parts.
  • Ropes and cables: Offering strength and resilience in various industrial contexts.
Kevlar remains an essential material across multiple industries, showcasing its versatility and durability.
Chemistry Education
Chemistry education serves as the foundation for innovations like Kevlar. Understanding chemical principles allows scientists to manipulate materials at a molecular level to create novel solutions. Educational programs covering polymer science, materials chemistry, and applied chemistry play a vital role in training future chemists who can continue to develop advanced materials. Teaching aspiring students about influential scientists such as Stephanie Kwolek not only imparts scientific knowledge but also inspires them to pursue innovative research that could lead to the next big breakthrough in material science.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Free-radical peroxides promote the polymerization of ethylene into polyethylene. They also play a key role in tropospheric smog formation. Use the web to learn more about how the peroxides promote ethylene polymerization and how peroxides are involved with photochemical smog formation in the troposphere. Write a brief report comparing the types of peroxides important with each of these cases. Cite all sources.

Many monomers contain a \(\mathrm{C}=\mathrm{C}\) double bond. Select one and draw its structural formula together with the corresponding polymer. Describe the similarities and differences between the monomer and the polymer.

Polyethylene is the most widely used synthetic polymer, but it is not the plastic of choice for margarine containers. Similarly it is not used for soft-drink bottles. Explain.

A Tefl on ear bone, fallopian tube, or heart valve? A Gore-Tex implant for the face or to repair a hernia? Some polymers are biocompatible and now used to replace or repair body parts. a. List four properties that would be desirable for polymers used within the human body b. Other polymers may be used outside your body, but in close contact with it. For example, no surgeon is needed for you to use your contact lenses鈥攜ou insert, remove, clean, and store them yourself. From which polymers are contact lenses made? What properties are desirable in these materials? Either a call to an optometrist or a search on the web may provide some answers. c. What is the difference in the material used in 鈥渉ard鈥� and 鈥渟oft鈥� contact lenses? How do the differences in properties affect the ease of wearing the contact lenses?

Recycling is not the same as waste prevention. Explain.
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