The properties of Nomex include great electrical insulation properties at high temperatures. Nomex does not flow or melt upon heating and doesn’t degrade or char at temperatures until well over 370 degrees Celsius. The compound that is usually found in fire-fighters coats and airline seat covers is Nomex III, which is a composite of 95% Nomex and 5% Kevlar. The Kevlar adds stability and tear resistance to the material. The general properties of Nomex are listed below.
· · Heat and Flame Resistant
· · High Ultraviolet Resistance
· · High Chemical Resistance
· · Low Thermal Shrinkage
· · Formable for Molded Parts
· · Low Elongation to Break
· · Low Electrical Conductivity
This properties cause paper made by Nomex to be stronger and tougher than regular cellulosic papers. Overall, Nomex® is both thermally and chemically very stable. The difference between Kevlar and Nomex is the location of the amide linkages on the aromatic ring. Those differences cause Nomex to a lower modulus and tensile strength and a higher elongation and solubility in organic solvents.