[timlarshanson]

Yep. This is a very interesting material, and of course it's a research prototype -- but it's not very strong. They list the modulus as 12.7 GPa and the yield strength (= ultimate tensile strength, since the film tears) as 488 MPa.

In comparison, polyimide (PMDA-PPD), which also easily solvent processable, has a modulus of 8.9 GPa, and a yield strength of 350 MPa.

Less equal comparisons involve polymers that are molecuarly aligned by drawing, spinning, or chemical processes. Dyneema UHMEPE has a modulus of 110 GPa and a ultimate tensile strength of 3.5 GPa. Kevlar is similar; it utilizes interlocking hydrogen bonds to convey strength. Even stronger are glass fibers (>4 GPa tensile strength) or PAN carbon fiber (> 6 GPa tensile strength).

You of course lose some strength when you make composites out of fiber -- but irregardless this polymer is many times weaker and softer.