---
title: "Podcast: Steve Brabbs from DuPont on Tyvek"
description: Explore Tyvek's uses and sustainability with DuPont's Steve Drabbs in our podcast. Discover its impact in various industries and innovations.
---

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# [Podcast: Steve Brabbs from DuPont on Tyvek](https://www.tapecon.com/podcasts/steve-brabbs-from-dupont-on-tyvek)

 Written by [Steven Davis](https://www.tapecon.com/podcasts/author/steven-davis) | Mar 29, 2024 7:51:51 PM

In this episode, we spoke with [Steve Brabbs](https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-brabbs-920ba1b/), Product and Application Development Leader/IP Manager at [DuPont](http://dupont.com).  We discussed Tyvek’s unique properties, uses, and DuPont’s sustainability initiatives. He also shared how DuPont collaborates with innovators and converter networks. 

### Watch The Video

 

### Listen to the Audio

 

 

### 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. 

[View full post](https://www.tapecon.com/podcasts/steve-brabbs-from-dupont-on-tyvek)

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