Effect of Elevated Temperature and Humidity on Fibers Based on 5-amino-2-(-aminophenyl) benzimidazole (PBIA).

Soft body armor is typically comprised of materials such as aramid. Recently, copolymer fibers based on the combination of 5-amino-2-(p-aminophenyl) benzimidazole (PBIA) and PPTA were introduced to the body armor marketplace. The long-term stability of these copolymer fibers have not been the subject of much research, however they may be sensitive to hydrolysis due to elevated humidity because they are condensation polymers.