Abstract
Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) woven fabrics have been shown to possess a high strength-to-weight ratio, low density, high-energy absorption, and abrasion-resistant properties. When subjected to dynamic impact, the primary failure mode of UHMWPE woven fabric is yarn pullout, which results from poor inter-yarn friction between the weft and warp yarns. This work investigates the potential use of zinc oxide nanowires (ZnO NWs), which are grown on plasma functionalized UHMWPE woven fabric, to improve the inter-yarn friction, energy absorption, and impact response of the fabric. Yarn pullout testing is used to evaluate the inter-yarn friction of ZnO NW coated UHMWPE fabric that was treated with oxygen plasma for 30 s. This testing demonstrates a 663.5% increase in friction, while the pullout energy increased by 822.9%, relative to neat UHMWPE fabric. The improved inter-yarn friction results in a 59.13% higher V50 ballistic limit, while the energy absorbed during impact increased by 227%, relative to neat fabric. This work demonstrates a new approach to yield-improved ballistic performance of woven UHMWPE fabrics, which can further the fabric's utilization in the creation of soft body armor.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
