New use for Kevlar
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• Dupont has developed a new application for its patented material Kevlar, best known for its use in friction linings, enabling road tankers to be used as bulk transporters on return journeys.
Square tanks, formed out of Kevlar-reinforced laminate, occupy the deck of a curtainsided trailer when in use and are hydraulically lifted to the roof when empty so that the deck can then be used to carry bulk goods.
Although the cost and availability of the system are as yet unannounced, Christian Pioger, the inventor, claims that it will save at least three tonnes, or about 10 per cent of the overall weight of the trailer.
Pioger's French firm has already sold 15 semi-trailers of this design, and is currently negotiating with several liquid transport contractors.