Research and selection of materials for the external cover of body armour

Analyzes and selects materials for the outer cover of bulletproof vests. A bulletproof vest is the main means of individual armor protection for military personnel, police officers, special forces, and security agencies. In the process of analyzing literary sources, the main characteristics that materials for the outer cover of a bulletproof vest should have were determined. The main physical and mechanical characteristics of common materials are also given. During laboratory studies, the physical and mechanical characteristics of 11 fabric samples purchased on the market were identified in accordance with the normative and technical documentation regulating the testing methodology. During the tests, in laboratory conditions, the following structural characteristics of fabrics were determined: fiber composition, thickness, surface density, warp and weft thread density, and linear density of warp and weft threads. In addition, the strength characteristics of fabrics were determined under uniaxial stretching to rupture before and after wet processing of fabrics. Here, the strength of the fabrics was tested during their tearing and abrasion, and then the obtained strength indicators were compared. The results of the laboratory studies are presented in the form of tables and graphs, which are analyzed and summarized. Analysis of fabric structural data and laboratory test results allows for the optimal selection of special fabrics for the outer cover of a bulletproof vest, depending on the conditions of its use and purpose.