The fiber exhibits high resistance to both chemicals and ultraviolet light, and is ideally suited for marine environments. Its low density makes it naturally buoyant in water, it will not absorb moisture, and it can withstand harsh environments such as cold ocean temperatures.
The companies point to increased safety as a major benefit of the Spectra fiber lifting slings, as they provide higher load protection and reduced risk of personal injury. They can be operated by a single person, eliminating the need for heavy machinery normally required to move steel slings on the job site. The slings also can be used with existing lifting equipment.
In addition to offshore oil and gas construction and deepwater recovery operations, the slings can assist with dry docking large vessels. The slings have also reportedly been used to redirect an iceberg from threatening an offshore oil platform in the North Atlantic.