Aramid Fiber vs. Carbon Fiber: A Phone Case Material Comparison

Aramid Fiber vs. Carbon Fiber: A Phone Case Material Comparison

Written by: Joanavi Fernan

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Time to read 6 min

Which Material Is Better for Phone Cases: Aramid Fiber or Carbon Fiber?

Most of us always search for the perfect case to protect our devices. While bulky cases offer great protection, they can take away from the aesthetic appeal and portability that drew me to our Samsung or iPhone in the first place. This is why we're always intrigued by ultra-slim case options that promise defense without compromise. Two popular materials vying for this role are Aramid fiber and Carbon fiber. Both boast strength-to-weight ratios that enable featherlight builds. But which of these advanced fabrics truly strikes the ideal balance of safety, style, and thinness? Let's break down the key differences between Aramid fiber cases and Carbon fiber material for phone cases. 

What are the Differences in Properties and Characteristics Between Aramid Fiber and Carbon Fiber?

Property/Characteristic

Aramid Fiber

Carbon Fiber

Density

1.43 - 1.45 g/cm³ (Kevlar 29 & Kevlar 49)

Varies, typically around 1.75 - 2.0 g/cm³

Tensile Strength

Very high

Even higher than aramid

Compressive Strength

Lower compared to carbon fiber

High

Elongation at Break

3.6% for Kevlar 29, 2.8% for Kevlar 49

Generally lower than aramid fibers, precise value depends on the type of carbon fiber

Thermal Stability

Excellent heat and flame resistance; does not melt or ignite easily

High temperature resistance, but can oxidize at higher temperatures without protection

Electrical Conductivity

Low (non-conductive)

High (conductive)

Fatigue Resistance

Not specified in provided data, but generally considered good due to its flexibility

High

Corrosion Resistance

Good chemical resistance

High resistance to chemicals and corrosion

Flexural Strength

Not specified in provided data

High, due to its rigidity

Impact Resistance

Good impact resistance

Less impact resistance compared to aramid fibers

Abrasion Resistance

Good

Varies, but generally less than aramid

UV Resistance

Resistant

UV resistant, but can be affected over time


This table highlights the key differences and similarities between aramid and carbon fibers based on the provided data. It's important to note that specific grades and types of each fiber will have variations in these properties.

Sources: https://www.mcrsafety.com/blog/aramid

https://www.chem.uwec.edu/chem405_s01/malenirf/project.html



Aramid Fiber Material

What are the Various Applications of Aramid Fiber and Carbon Fiber in Different Industries?

Aramid Fiber (Including Kevlar®):

Applications: Body armor, protective gear, reinforcing material in composites, electrical insulation.


Key Properties:


  • Exceptional strength and resistance to heat and impact.
  • Lightweight, which is crucial for wearable protective gear.
  • High tensile strength, making it suitable for bulletproof vests and helmets.
  • Resistance to chemicals and abrasion, useful in industrial applications like hoses and belts.

Notable Uses:


  • Protective equipment for law enforcement and military.
  • Reinforcing material in composite structures for durability.
  • Electrical insulation due to its thermal stability.


Carbon Fiber:

Applications: Aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, structural applications requiring high stiffness.


Key Properties:


  • High stiffness and low weight, essential for performance and fuel efficiency.
  • Excellent structural integrity without added weight.
  • Benefits vehicles and aircraft by improving performance and reducing fuel consumption.

Notable Uses:


  • Construction of lightweight and strong components in aerospace and automotive sectors.
  • Manufacture of high-performance sports equipment, such as racing bicycles and golf clubs.
  • Structural applications where rigidity and weight reduction are critical.



Key Differences:

Aramid Fibers: Best suited for safety and protective applications, emphasizing flexibility, impact resistance, and thermal stability.


Carbon Fibers: Preferred in applications requiring maximum stiffness and weight reduction, such as in aerospace, automotive, and sports equipment.


Sources : https://www.dupont.com/content/dam/dupont/amer/us/en/safety/public/documents/en/Kevlar_Technical_Guide_0319.pdf

What are the benefits of using Aramid Fiber and Carbon Fiber in the manufacturing of phone cases?

Below is a comprehensive comparison of Aramid Fiber and Carbon Fiber in phone cases.


Feature

Aramid Fiber Phone Cases

Carbon Fiber Phone Cases

Material Properties

High strength, good resistance to abrasion, does not block phone signals.

Stiff and rigid, can be brittle, may interfere with phone signals due to conductivity.

Durability

Highly durable with excellent impact absorption capabilities.

Less durable than Aramid, with a tendency to be more brittle.

Signal Interference

Does not interfere with phone signal, ensuring optimal device performance.

Potential to interfere with phone signals, affecting call quality and data connectivity.

Aesthetic and Design

Offers a sleek and slim design while maintaining the phone's lightweight profile.

Known for its distinctive high-tech appearance and woven pattern that provides a unique texture.

Heat Resistance

Exhibits excellent resistance to heat, preventing overheating of the device.

Not specifically mentioned, but Carbon fiber's thermal conductivity varies based on the type used.

Weight and Bulk

Lightweight and adds minimal bulk to the device, preserving its sleek profile.

Generally lightweight but can sometimes add more bulk compared to Aramid fiber cases.

Overall Protection

Superior protection against drops and falls due to high strength and durability.

Provides effective protection against bending or warping but may not absorb impact as well as Aramid.

Carbon Fiber Material

Can Both Aramid Fiber and Carbon Fiber be Integrated in Phone Cases?

Combining Aramid Fiber and Carbon Fiber is not only possible but has been increasingly utilized in various applications to leverage the unique properties of both materials. This synergy enhances the mechanical properties, durability, and application potential of the composite material. 


At Thinborne, we're proud to introduce our innovative process for crafting protective cases, a testament to our commitment to superior quality and protection for your devices. Our unique approach combines the unparalleled strength of aramid fiber with the sleek, stylish durability of carbon fiber, resulting in phone cases that are not just protective but also exquisitely designed and featherlight. Here’s a closer look at our meticulous process:

Design and Material Preparation

Design Specification



Every Thinborne case begins with a precise design phase, where we tailor the dimensions and features specifically for the S24 Ultra model. This meticulous planning ensures perfect alignment with the device's cameras, ports, and buttons, offering seamless functionality without compromising on protection.



Hybrid Fabric Creation


At the heart of our cases is the innovative hybrid fabric, a carefully balanced blend of aramid and carbon fibers. We’ve mastered the art of weaving these materials together to achieve a composite that boasts both durability and a premium finish. The result? A case that feels luxurious in hand and offers unmatched resilience.


Molding Process



Once our hybrid fabric is prepared, it's expertly cut and laid into a custom-designed mold that mirrors the contours of the S24 Ultra. This precision ensures a snug fit and comprehensive protection for every inch of your device.

Manufacturing Process

Resin Impregnation



In the next step, our hybrid fabric undergoes a resin impregnation process. Using state-of-the-art vacuum bagging techniques, we ensure that the epoxy resin evenly permeates the fabric, eliminating any air pockets that could compromise the case's integrity.


Curing and Hardening



The impregnated fabric is then subjected to controlled heat and pressure, a crucial step that cures the resin and transforms the material into a solid, cohesive structure. This process solidifies the bond between the aramid and carbon fibers, creating a case that's incredibly tough yet surprisingly light.


Finishing Touches



After curing, each Thinborne case is carefully removed from its mold. But our work doesn't stop there - we meticulously trim, sand, and apply a proprietary protective coating to every case. This not only enhances the case's aesthetic appeal but also adds a layer of UV protection to prevent discoloration and keep your case looking pristine over time.

Thinborne Aramid  Phone Case

The Thinborne Difference

The Thinborne S24 Ultra case represents the pinnacle of smartphone protection technology. Our unique blend of aramid and carbon fibers ensures that each case offers superior protection against drops, bumps, and scratches while remaining lightweight and heat resistant. Our commitment to quality and innovation means that every Thinborne case not only protects your device but also complements its design with a sleek, modern aesthetic.




Experience the Thinborne difference today and give your S24 Ultra the protection it deserves, wrapped in unparalleled style and craftsmanship.

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Joan F.

General manager of Thinborne - the super thin phone case made of Aramid Fiber.

"I am a tech nerd who's obsessed with everything Apple. With plenty of experience in the tech world, I enjoy sharing tips and tricks to help folks get the most out of their devices. When I'm not glued to my screen, you can find me hiking or cooking up a storm in the kitchen."

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