DSM Dyneema in the Aquaculture sector

Dyneema® is a polyethylene fibre based on ultra high molecular weight, that offers maximum strength combined with minimum weight. It is up to 15 times stronger than quality steel and up to 40% stronger than aramid fibres. It floats on water and is extremely durable and resistant to moisture, UV light and chemicals. The applications are therefore more or less unlimited including the ever more demanding and actively growing aquaculture sector.

Nets made with Dyneema® fibres are extremely tough and can resist most predatory attacks and biting from the outside of a net such as the ones from seals etc, as well as biting and abrasion from the inside caused by fish such as cod or sea bream, reducing fish escapes in the emerging segment of cod farming.

At the same time, the fibres not only feature outstanding resistance against wear and tear, including UV light, but they are also much thinner and lighter than traditional materials – up to one third of the weight of polyamide for equal strength. Therefore, Dyneema® provides less tension on the mooring systems, better net shape stability and improved water flow through the cages. Nets made with these fibres are weightless in water. They do not absorb any water which makes them much lighter when lifted out of the water.

As a result, nets and cages made with Dyneema® yarn are reliable, easier and safer to work with. They deliver significant economic and handling benefits saving maintenance time and cost and provide a less stressful and healthier environment for fish.

This attractive solution is not only intended for existing applications but also for future netting developments, such as larger cages as well as farming in exposed or off shore locations. The company has its own well equipped testing facilities and is constantly looking at improvements and application developments by collaborating with different institutes, customers and end users.