Bullet Penetration into Medium Density Fibreboard Targets

Abstract

This paper discusses normal projectile impacts on medium density fibreboard (MDF), a wood-based material. Impact experiments have been performed using flat MDF targets. Two different 9 mm projectiles are used, viz. Ball and Ball Subsonic. Penetration depths of projectiles are determined using x-ray photography. The experimental data can be described using both the Robins-Euler model and the Poncelet model. This implies that the resistance to penetration offered by the target can be resolved using two physically interpretable components, viz. the contribution of inertial stresses and the dynamic strength of the material. Results on MDF and wooden targets are compared. For MDF Janka hardness measurements were performed for comparison with natural wood. The observed dynamic strength R shows a good correlation with the Janka hardness. In principle, Janka hardness could be used to predict the resistance of wooden materials to projectile penetration. Finally, possible future research is discussed.