The Netherlands-based DSM Dyneema has partnered with Germany-based Hoffman Air Cargo Equipment GmbH
(ACE) to develop a third-generation lightweight air cargo net made with Dyneema®
ultra-high-strength polyethylene fiber. The net is one of the first to weigh less than 8 kilograms
(kg), compared to traditional cargo nets made with polyester that typically weigh between 15 and 18
kg.
According to DSM Dyneema, the lighter-weight Dyneema nets can help decrease aviation fuel
consumption by up to 700 kg per year for each net used – a six-fold reduction of greenhouse gas
emissions. A typical mid-size cargo airline using 5,000 nets could decrease total annual greenhouse
gas emissions by more than 20,000 tons with the use of Dyneema nets.
DSM Dyneema and Hoffman ACE recently received the Hessian Innovation Award for their
collaboration in advancing lightweight air cargo equipment. Hoffman currently is using first- and
second-generation air cargo nets made with Dyneema. The new third-generation net will be launched
commercially at the inter airport 2009 exhibition in Munich, to be held this October.
April 21, 2009
