Experimental evaluation of the impact strength of laminated composites with a thermoplastic matrix

Tensile tests were performed to obtain the quasi-static mechanical properties of the aramid fabrics (Twaron®, RUSLAN®-SVM). The elastic modulus of filaments, pulled out from the fabrics was measured with compact testing machine INSTRON 5942. Filaments pull-out tests were carried out to compare the frictional forces in different aramid fabrics. Eight various types of ballistic panels with the thermoplastic matrix based on polyethylene were fabricated and two types ballistic panels based on UHMPE (Dyneema®). Extensive ballistic tests have been carried out on various ballistic panels using 6.35 mm steel ball. Special powder gun stand for acceleration of projectiles with terminal velocity up to 900 m/s was developed The ballistic performance was assessed in terms V50 threshold as well as post V50 limit. After the test, the comparison was produced of effectiveness between all of materials used in this work. Laminates based on UHMPE fibers are much better than others in respect to the values of on indicators of V50 (about 10 %) and of the absorbed energy (about 25 %) under high-velocity impact conditions. But their energy absorption capability can sharply drop down when projectile's velocity exceeds the ballistic limit. When selecting reinforcing aramid fabric for ballistic application, it is important to consider not only the mechanical properties of the fibers and the type of fabric construction, but also the material should have good results on all parameters of ballistic efficiency such as filaments width, etc. Best aramid fabric composite was SVM S125 with twill construction and LDPE films.