DuPont Sells Kevlar Unit for $1.8 Billion

Chemicals firm Arclin acquires DuPont's Kevlar and Nomex fire-resistant fabric business.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:00pm

DuPont Co. has sold its Kevlar and Nomex fire-resistant fabric business, a major employer in the Richmond, Virginia area, to the chemicals firm Arclin for $1.8 billion.

Why it matters

The sale of DuPont's Kevlar unit represents a strategic shift for the company as it focuses on its core chemical and materials businesses. The transaction also impacts the local Richmond economy, where the Kevlar and Nomex operations have been a significant employer.

The details

DuPont's Kevlar and Nomex business produces high-performance fibers used in a variety of applications, including body armor, industrial equipment, and fire-resistant clothing. Arclin, the acquiring company, is a specialty chemicals firm that produces resins, coatings, and other materials for the construction and industrial sectors.

  • DuPont announced the $1.8 billion sale on April 1, 2026.

The players

DuPont Co.

A major American conglomerate that produces a wide range of chemicals, materials, and specialty products.

Arclin

A specialty chemicals firm that produces resins, coatings, and other materials for the construction and industrial sectors.

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What’s next

The sale is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.

The takeaway

The divestment of the Kevlar unit reflects DuPont's strategic focus on its core chemical and materials businesses, while the acquisition by Arclin expands the latter's portfolio of high-performance industrial products.