Russian Scientists Target Kevlar Replacement With New Polyethylene at SKIF

The Siberian Ring Photon Source (SKIF) will launch its first scientific experiment by investigating the structure of a titanium complex. Researchers aim to develop a new type of polymer designed to replace Kevlar in the production of lightweight body armor. The study will take place at experimental station 1-7, a facility dedicated to diagnostics, training, and innovation. The research focuses on the organic shell surrounding a titanium ion, which acts as the center for ethylene polymerization synthesis. This process is intended to produce ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene with a specialized structure. Valery Bukhtiyarov, Director of the Institute of Catalysis SB RAS: "Armor made from this material will not be inferior to Kevlar in properties, but will be two to three times lighter."