Innovative method for studying impact energy absorption of hybrid polymer composites used in the defence industry

Abstract

This study presents an experimental methodology for testing the impact energy absorption of hybrid polymer composites used in the defence industry. For this purpose, an apparatus was also developed and designed in accordance with this methodology, the construction and operation of which are described in this publication. As part of this methodology, to provide a comprehensive characterization of the impact energy absorption properties of the tested composites, it was complemented with rheological measurements of non-Newtonian fluids, one of the main components of the hybrid polymer composite, as well as microscopic analysis of defect structures. This methodology allowed for a comprehensive, rapid, and effective verification of composites impregnated with non-Newtonian fluids and composites with hybridized reinforcement. In summary, the methodology presented in this work enables a fast and precise analysis of the absolute impact energy absorption, which is crucial for composites used in the defence industry.