Stephanie Kwolek
Chemist who invented Kevlar, the fiber used in bulletproof vests.
Their Story
Stephanie Kwolek was an American chemist who invented Kevlar, an incredibly strong and lightweight synthetic fiber. While researching new materials, she discovered a fiber that was stronger than steel by weight. Kevlar is now used in protective gear, helmets, and many other products.
Era
1900s
Field
Materials Engineering
Stephanie Kwolek
Chemist who invented Kevlar, the fiber used in bulletproof vests.
Engineering · Materials Engineering · 1900s · Women in STEM
Their Story
Stephanie Kwolek was an American chemist who invented Kevlar, an incredibly strong and lightweight synthetic fiber. While researching new materials, she discovered a fiber that was stronger than steel by weight. Kevlar is now used in protective gear, helmets, and many other products.
Key Innovation
Invented Kevlar, a lightweight fiber stronger than steel used in protective equipment.
Why It Matters Today
Kevlar protects police, firefighters, and athletes, and shows how new materials can save lives.
Learn More
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephanie_Kwolek
Wilkinson STEM Education Foundation · 251 American Innovators · wilkinsonstemfoundation.org
