Low velocity impact behaviour of aramid and UHMWPE composites

Abstract

The most popular method to produce composites for ballistic applications is to use aramid and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers as reinforcement materials in different matrices. The composite materials used in this type of application, especially those used as armoring materials for explosions, are subjected to a very high level of energy. In this study, the effect of the reinforcement material type and cross-plied condition of reinforcement were examined using high-level impact tests. The impact tests were performed at low speed but high energy, and thus the behaviour of the composite materials that were exposed to high-level impact energy could be examined. According to the results, the UD aramid composite produced the best results with respect to high-level impact tests. In addition, mass optimisation could be achieved without the loss of the high-level impact energy by preparing a hybrid composite with UD UHMWPE and UD aramid fibers.