Ballistic Test of Multilayered Armor with Intermediate Epoxy Composite Reinforced with Jute Fabric

Fernanda Santos Da Luz,Edio Pereira Lima Junior,Sergio Neves Monteiro,Luis Henrique Leme Louro

doi:10.1590/1516-1439.358914

Fernanda Santos Da Luz, Edio Pereira Lima Junior + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1590/1516-1439.358914

Copy DOI

Journal: Materials Research	Publication Date: Oct 23, 2015
Citations: 95	License type: cc-by

Affiliation: Military Institute of Engineering

Abstract

Multilayered armors with a front ceramic followed by aramid fabric (Kevlar™) are currently used against high velocity ammunition. In these armors, a front ceramic layer that shatters and spalls the bullet is followed by an intermediate layer, usually plies of aramid fabric, which dissipates both the bullet and ceramic fragments energy. In the present work, the intermediate aramid fabric layer was replaced by an equal thickness layer of 30 vol% jute fabric reinforced epoxy composite. Ballistic impact test with 7.62 caliber ammunition revealed that both the plain epoxy and the jute fabric composite have a relatively similar performance of the Kevlar™ and also attended the NIJ standard for body protection. The energy dissipation mechanisms of jute fabric composite were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and found to be the rupture of the brittle epoxy matrix as well as the interaction of the jute fibers with the post-impact fragments. This latter is the same mechanism recently disclosed for aramid fabric. However, the lightness and lower cost of the jute fabric composite are additional advantages that favor its substitution for the aramid fabric.

Highlights

Bullet proof vests for personal protection may use a single layer armor with just one ballistic resistant material as that of a composite formed with plies of aramid fabric; the well known KevlarTM[1,2]
To evaluate the individual ballistic behavior of each distinct intermediate layer, tests were separately performed in the ceramic tile, KevlarTM, jute fabric composite plate and plain epoxy plate
For application in armor vest, it is important to mention that the jute fabric composite is lighter and significantly cheaper than the KevlarTM

Summary

Introduction

Bullet proof vests for personal protection may use a single layer armor with just one ballistic resistant material as that of a composite formed with plies of aramid fabric; the well known KevlarTM[1,2]. This protection, is limited to relatively low impact velocity (vi < 600 m/s) projectiles, such as a 9 mm ammunition. To stand the 7.62 mm fast bullet with perforating power, a conventional MAS possesses a front ceramic tile, which absorbs most of the impact energy.

Methods

Results

Conclusion