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| New hurricane-resistant architectural panel system Alcoa and DuPont have collaborated to develop a new product for the commercial building and construction market that provides protection against the damage of hurricane wind-borne debris. The two corporate leaders have joined forces to introduce an innovative new product that incorporates both companies' science and technical expertise in high-strength materials technology. Called Reynobond with Kevlar, it is a durable architectural panel system designed to withstand wind-borne debris and wind speeds common in hurricanes up to a Category 3 storm. Reynobond made with Kevlar brand fiber acts as a safety net by helping to protect the facades of buildings from hurricane-propelled debris, frequently the main cause of hurricane damage. Reynobond with Kevlar combines the weight and flexibility benefits of Alcoa's Reynobond aluminum composite material with the impact-resistant strength of DuPont Kevlar fiber. By introducing a thin layer of fabric made from Kevlar fiber between the Reynobond aluminum skins and polyethylene core, Alcoa has created the only light, flexible aluminum composite material that can, on its own, withstand hurricane-propelled debris. Reynobond with Kevlar is an ideal cladding material for the facades of commercial office and public buildings, such as schools, libraries, museums, hospitals and other small and mid-sized structures, particularly in hurricane prone areas like the U.S. Gulf region. Reynobond with Kevlar is a cost-effective alternative to traditional fascia materials because no protective backer material is needed, it is easy to install, and it is low maintenance. Panels can be shop-fabricated and quickly and simply installed onto studs, significantly reducing installation time and labor costs as compared to other facades. Because no repainting is required, the new product requires less maintenance over its lifetime. Reynobond with Kevlar is a lightweight aluminum composite material that helps provide protection for a building structure with a superior strength to weight ratio further enhanced by the extraordinary high strength of DuPont Kevlar brand fiber, which is five times stronger than steel on an equal weight basis. Kevlar is used around the world as the life-saving material in bullet-resistant vests and body armor. In this application, Kevlar provides superior impact resistance, similar to how it works as a protective barrier around jet turbine blades and luggage containers for aircraft to help shield passengers from flying debris should an explosion occur. Reynobond with Kevlar shares the same benefits of durability and versatility as traditional Reynobond aluminum composite material, which is used around the world in a wide range of interior and exterior architectural and specialty applications. Plus, Reynobond with Kevlar enjoys the same limitless range of colorful hues as traditional Reynobond aluminum composite material, providing the added bonus of greater architectural aesthetics. Reynobond with Kevlar will initially be available throughout U.S. hurricane-related markets from Texas to Florida and north to Maine and then globally. write your comments about the article :: © 2006 Construction News :: home page |