Properties and Applications of Celanese PBI—Polybenzimidazole Fiber

Celanese PBI is a derivatized polybenzimidazole fiber possessing a unique balance of properties that permit it to meet critical cost/performance criteria in demanding environments. The fiber, a modification of previously documented earlier versions, has excellent textile, tactile, thermal, and chemical resistance properties and sig nificantly reduced flame shrinkage, all of which are fully described. These properties permit the fiber to be used as an alternative to asbestos, in high temperature filtration fabrics, in thermal protection clothing, and in numerous other high tem perature and chemical resistance applications. Several specific applications are described along with performance results. A new production facility will provide commercial quantities beginning in early 1983.