In this episode, we spoke with Steve Brabbs, Product and Application Development Leader/IP Manager at DuPont. We discussed Tyvek’s unique properties, uses, and DuPont’s sustainability initiatives. He also shared how DuPont collaborates with innovators and converter networks.
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Conversation Overview
- Steve Brabbs is DuPont production and application technology leader and intellectual property manager. He has a Ph.D. in organic chemistry.
- He has been with DuPont for 34 years. His work focuses on Tyvek and its uses.
- Tyvek is high-density polyethylene with a unique structure. It comes in a specific shape and a range of fiber sizes connected to form a sheet structure.
- This unique structure creates a lightweight, strong, and breathable material that is a barrier against water, dust, dirt, and particles.
- Because of these properties, Tyvek has many applications, such as making sheets that protect the interior of buildings if there’s a gap. The interior stays dry, but moisture vapor can escape so the timber doesn’t rot.
- Tyvek is used in “suits” worn in industrial environments where people work with hazardous materials. Because Tyvek is breathable, the suits are comfortable for all-day wear.
- Tyvek is also used to package medical materials. Once sterilized, it keeps contaminants out until a medical professional opens it. For this use, the Tyvek has a sealant coating.
- DuPont is working towards more recyclable packaging for a more sustainable supply chain. The goal is for the entire package to be recyclable in one material stream.
- Tyvek is inherently sustainable because it’s made of highly recyclable polyethylene. Because it’s lightweight, you can use and transport less material and use less fuel for a smaller carbon footprint.
- Eventually, DuPont wants to use more recycled carbon in Tyvek. The company’s Luxembourg site recently received ISCC PLUS, a voluntary sustainability certification. Steve said DuPont hopes their Richmond, VA, site will be certified in 2024.
- Some food safety packaging uses Tyvek. Companies are considering it for food-safe labels that change color if food isn’t safe to eat.
- As an engineer who wants to incorporate Tyvek into a design, Steve advises engineers who incorporate Tyvek into their designs to have realistic expectations about the material’s capabilities. For example, it can’t be transparent.
- In addition, companies must ensure they are compliant with industry regulations. DuPont has extensive knowledge of regulations and testing capabilities to ensure you use the correct type of Tyvek for your specifications.
- In conclusion, Steve noted that DuPont loves collaborating with innovators and converters, such as Tapecon. Tapecon provides personalization, branding, or special coatings.
