Dyneema pack durability

[111]

Dyneema as a material is degraded by UV, correct? So wouldn't it follow that a pack made with an extremely thin dyneema fabric would be degraded fairly quickly and fall apart under normal outdoor UV exposure? Anyone know how long this theoretical breakdown would take in reality?

 

[nhluhr]

In a word... no. Dyneema is a dutch brand of Spectra and is relatively UV resistant, compared to traditional Nylon. It wouldn't be wise to use a material that is highly UV susceptible for boat sails.

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sailcloth

Spectra

Spectra is an ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) made by Honeywell, which offers superior UV resistance (on par with PET), very high initial modulus numbers (second only to high modulus Carbon Fiber), superior breaking strength, and high flex strength. However, it also exhibits permanent and continuous elongation under a sustained load (AKA: creep). This results in a change in shape as the sail ages. Because of this Spectra is only used in spinnakers on high performance boats where the sails are replaced regularly.

 

Dyneema

Equivalent to Spectra, Dyneema is produced by the Dutch company DSM. It is often used by European sailcloth manufacturers, is available in a wider variety of yarn sizes than Spectra, and is growing in popularity in North America.

 

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dyneema

Since UHMWPE does not contain chemical groups (such as esters, amides or hydroxylic groups) that are susceptible to attack from aggressive agents, it is very resistant to water, moisture, most chemicals, UV radiation, and micro-organisms.

Edited February 1, 2010 by nhluhr

[111]

thanks!