High-Velocity Impact Studies on Dyneema Fabric with and without STF-Experimental and Theoretical Studies

Abstract

AbstractHigh-strength synthetic fibres are being used in the defense sector in impact-resistant structures, mainly as bullet-proof jackets. The ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fabric is a high strength material which can be used as energy absorbing elements against the high-speed impact. Woven Dyneema fibres are impregnated with a shear thickening fluid (STF) fabricated with silica powder and polyethylene glycol-400 (PEG). The samples are subjected to impact by a steel projectile using an air gun and the ballistic limits are obtained. For the conduct of impact test, we have used impact testing air gun operated by compressed air. High-speed camera is used for capturing the images and for calculating residual velocities. Experiments are carried out for velocities ranging from 20 m/s to 400 m/s. The addition of STF is found to improve the ballistic limit of the samples. The ballistic limits, velocities and energy absorption of fabrics with and without STF, are obtained for 8, 10, 12, 20, 30, and 40 layers of Dyneema fabric layers. It is observed that STF impregnated Dyneema fabric has a better ballistic limit and energy absorption than neat Dyneema fabric. LS Dyna is used for modeling and simulating the impact event and to validate the experimental results. The experimental and numerical results are found to be comparable to each other.KeywordsHigh-velocity impactSTFImpact behaviourLS-DYNAResidual velocityBallistic limits