Stephanie Kwolek, pioneering chemist who invented Kevlar fibre, dies age 90
The pioneering woman scientist who developed Kevlar, the super-strong fibre used in protective body armour, has died at the age of 90.
Stephanie Kwolek was carrying out research at the giant US chemical firm DuPont when she made her discovery in 1965.
She had been trying to create a fibre to reinforce car tyres that was lighter weight and more fuel efficient than the metal previously in use.
The liquid crystal polymer she created became Kevlar, which is five times stronger than steel and extremely lightweight.
As well as body armour and other protective clothing, Kevlar is used in products ranging from sports gear to fibre-optic cables.
DuPont described Ms Kwolek as a pioneering woman scientist whose discovery has saved thousands of lives.
She died in a hospice, media sources said, citing her friend and former co-worker Rita Vasta, who did not give a cause of death.
"We are all saddened at the passing of DuPont scientist Stephanie Kwolek, a creative and determined chemist and a true pioneer for women in science," DuPont CEO Ellen Kullman said in a statement.
"She leaves a wonderful legacy of thousands of lives saved and countless injuries prevented by products made possible by her discovery."
In 1996 Ms Kwolek was awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation.