Dow
Corning Corp. has recently introduced its patent pending DEFLEXION
impact-protection technology based on silicones.  Engineered for
protective equipment and apparel in a flexible, breathable form,
Deflexion is designed to protect without the added bulk and stiffness of
traditional padding. The technology offers textiles that are flexible,
breathable, washable and durable; and can be cut and sewn directly into
clothing, eliminating the need to insert uncomfortable padding.

There are two
technology platforms involved:

• the S-Range
  three-dimensional spacer textile technology
• the TP-Range
  thermoplastic technology

The S-Range is based on 3-D spacer
fabrics impregnated with specially formulated silicones, designed to
offer high levels of protection in a form that is comfortable for the
wearer and creative for the designer. It works on the principle that
impact energy is dissipated across the surface away from the point of
contact thus reducing the forces transmitted through to the body.
Depending on the number of layers the force can be spread over two or
three times the normal surface area. This is a known feature of certain
silicone polymers due to their polymeric architecture.

The T-Range is a solid
or perforated, 3-mm thick product that is supple and is typically
suitable for protection against minor impacts. The range can either
exceed existing armor products or  can match competitive protection
levels but in a thinner or lighter form. It is well suited for
protecting fragile objects where low to medium levels of protection are
necessary.

More information about Deflexion
SOURCE: Dow Corning
Corp.