CARBITEX AWARDED PATENT FOR NEW ANTI-PUNCTURE FLEXIBLE CARBON FIBER INSOLE
AFX-AP Technology Launches Carbitex ’ s First Foray into Work and Utility Footwear Markets
Carbitex – the leader in flexible carbon fiber composites – is proud to announce the recent patent protection of its new anti-puncture foot plate technology . Expanding its advancements across flexible carbon fiber innovations , Carbitex ’ s new AFX anti-puncture ( AFX-AP ) material offers increased protection without compromising asymmetric flexibility ; notably ideal for workers at increased risk of underfoot injury as often seen in construction , workwear , and utility sectors .
Carbitex AFX anti-puncture material ( US Patent # 11109639B2 ) is a multi-layer composite plate that offers the highest degree of performance , and is the only plate with anti-puncture protection and asymmetric flexibility . The new AFX-AP is a protective evolution of Carbitex ’ s lightweight flexible carbon fiber AFX technology that is stiff in one direction to prevent the foot from over-flexing , and is highly flexible in the other direction for improved ergonomic movement . AFX-AP passes global industry test standards ( ASTM F2412-11 , EN 12568:2010 , CZA Z195-14 ).
The AFX-AP technology was created by Arjun Shanker , Scott Woolley and Tyler Carpenter , who identified an opportunity to develop an advanced material that would allow for an evolution of traditionally heavy and bulky work-shoe construction to lighter more nimble footwear , that still retains the protective and supportive qualities . AFX-AP allows for this shift by providing the protection and stability usually accomplished through heavy and bulky outsoles in a lightweight package .
“ Pushing the paradigm of the construction of work shoes , AFX-AP reduces the need for heavy , stiff protective soles and makes way for lighter , flexible , more ergonomic footwear ,” says Tom DeShiell , Principal Engineer / R & D Manager at Carbitex . “ Our latest innovation addresses the critical needs of workers , providing protection and stability , with lightweight performance for long hours on the job site .”
AFX-AP is Carbitex ’ s first foray into the work and utility footwear markets , and is available to brand partners beginning Fall 2022 for in-market product release as early as Fall 2023 . •
4 TIPS Magazine • June 2022