High-performance polymers for defense applications

Depending on their intended end use, certain materials in our portfolio may have dual-use applications. They are developed and proven in civilian applications such as automotive, aerospace and construction, and could equally be suited to meet the more stringent performance requirements of defense and security applications. 

Following successful individual testing, our materials can be used in protective equipment, critical infrastructure, and communication technologies. We are mindful to collaborate only with trustworthy partners. All business transactions are subject to export control regulations, the observance of Intellectual Property rights and compliance standards of Covestro. 

Polymer material solutions from Covestro are widely used in commercial drone platforms — and bring the same proven performance to military UAV applications. Polycarbonate and Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPU) as resins or films - can enable lightweight structural shells, rotor blades, sensor covers and battery housing that can be produced in fast, large-scale industrial processes, reduce weight, resist impact and shield EMI (Electro Magnetic Interference) even under harsh field conditions. PU foam systems protect onboard batteries and electronics against vibration, thermal stress, and impact. Fiber optic coatings provide the right mechanical and environmental protection for fibers used in tethered drone applications, enabling reliable, jam-proof data transmission while keeping the tether lightweight and flexible. DeSolite® coatings protect against abrasion, moisture, and mechanical stress over the full fiber optic length which is critical in demanding field conditions.

From construction helmets to ski goggles, the materials of Covestro are trusted for personal protection in civilian life — and deliver the same reliable protection level in military and law enforcement contexts. Polycarbonate provides ballistic-grade impact resistance for helmet shells, visors, face shields, and riot barriers. Thermoplastic adhesive films, TPU and PU binder systems as well as cast PU elastomers bond multi-layer soft and hard armor composites into lightweight, body conforming ballistic vests and plates for state-of-the-art body armor. Photopolymer holographic films enable augmented reality head mounted displays (HMD) and laser strike protection for pilots and security personnel. Functional tactical gear textile coatings provide camouflage, CBRN (Chemical/Biological/ Radiological and Nuclear) protection, breathability and abrasion resistance for tactical gear, uniforms and shelters. Sensor-integrated apparel using flexible printed electronics on TPU films enables real-time vital sign monitoring of personnel in the field

Our materials are established in commercial vehicle manufacturing — and also provide valuable properties to protect and improve military ground vehicles. Aliphatic Chemical Agent Resistant Coatings (CARC) protect the vehicle and personnel if exposed to chemical agents. Aliphatic TPU films are used in armored vehicle cabin windows and safety glazing, providing blast and ballistic protection while reducing weight versus conventional glass. PU foams and elastomers attenuate blast energy, reduce noise and vibration, and protect crew in FST-compliant interiors. High-load cast PU elastomers extend the service life of suspension components, run-flat systems and track pads could bring novel advantages under extreme off-road and severe operational conditions. Lightweight PU composite panels replace steel in cargo areas and underbody armor, reducing vehicle weight while maintaining structural integrity. PC resins, PC films, and elastomers protect sensitive electronics, radar systems, and communication equipment against impact damage, moisture and vibration.  PC resins, PC films and elastomers protect sensitive electronics, radar systems, and communication equipment against EMC/EMP threats, moisture and vibration.

The materials from Covestro are proven at an industrial scale across markets with different performance requirements. Their performance characteristics — lightweight, impact resistance, thermal stability, chemical resistance and design flexibility — make them equally relevant where protection and reliability are mission-critical.

In naval applications, our cast PU and energy-absorbing foam systems contribute to acoustic stealth, shock resistance and sensor protection in submarine and surface vessel platforms. For field infrastructure, flexible TPU films, PU coatings and antimicrobial dispersions enable lightweight, deployable structures such as decontamination tents, field hospital modules, and protective outerwear.