PBI Intro| Structure | Uses | The good the bad and the burny|History|
PBI is made through the combination of two chains, click on the image for a further explanation.
According to Wikipedia, the chemical formula of Poly[2,2’-(m-phenylen)-5,5’ bibenzimidazol] (PBI) is believed to be: ([NH-C=CH-C=CH-CH=C-N=C-]2-[C=CH-C=CH-CH=CH-])n OR (C20N4H12)n.
Because of its structure it has a high chemical and heat resistance which under “normal” conditions prevents it from burning or smoldering.
Its Heat resistance is:
- continuous temperature: 540 °C (1,000 °F)
- melting temperature: 760 °C (1,400 °F) under pyrolysis
- retains fiber integrity and suppleness up to 540 °C (1,000 °F)
Another form of PBI called HOZOLE is being used for fuel cells and rockets because of its high resistance to heat. PBI can be both a “plastic” and a fabric, depending on the way which it is formed.
This is HOZOLE (It is the same as PBI).
The final product of PBI (in fire gear) allows firefighters to ender hazardous situations, risking their lives so others may live.
