Synthetic Fibers

The Gossamer Albatross crossed the English Channel as the first human powered aircraft, fueled solely on the leg power of the pilot. It was designed by the inventor Paul MacCready, who chose to use synthetic fibers to gain excellent efficiency.

One of the materials he used was Kevlar. Its fibers consist of long molecular chains produced from poly-paraphenylene terephthalamide. The structure of Kevlar allows it to have several different properties including high tensile strength at low weight, high toughness, and flame resistant. By coating the foam with Kevlar, Paul MacCready not only achieved strength but also reduced drag.

Today, Paul MacCready and his company AeroVironment Inc. create drones from the military. They are small in size and light in weight, which make them hard to spot. The drones are equipped with miniaturized cameras and are used to surveillance. In order for these drones to be launched from a gun, it must be able to endure extreme forces. The drones are therefore made entirely out of carbon in order to withstand the shock load from its take-off.

MacCready is motivated to do more with less. By using materials that combine the right kinds of properties, he is able to create innovative and ground-breaking designs.