PBI is something fantastic in the polymer field. Temperatures, in air of 800oF with short bursts to 1400oF are within its capability! PBI will not melt or burn and at no temperature will PBI produce a brittle char. Flames, laser energy, intense radiation and aerodynamic ablation can all be handled by this product. At the other end, PBI maintains its properties to -320oF. PBI is the hardest of any virgin polymer: even harder than Melamine! As well, PBI outperforms all other commercially available polymers in saturated steam environments. This material is almost unaffected by acids, weak bases and solvents. Products such as firefighters equipment, fire blocking layers in aircraft and space suits have been made from PBI fibres since the early 1980's. Now with standard shape stock available, items such as nose cones; valves and seals for severe chemical environments at high temperature; next generation electronic connectors and switches operating in extreme conditions; "down-the-hole" parts able to withstand the heat, pressure and hostile environment of oil wells; can all be manufactured to successfully perform where many other materials have failed. PBI machines well using a broad range of coolants to produce fine finishes and close tolerance parts. PBI is notch sensitive and parts should be designed accordingly.
