Numerical and experimental investigation on 3D angle interlock woven fabric under ballistic impact

Abstract

3D woven fabric has great potential applications in body armor due to its good mouldability. This paper reports the ballistic mechanism of 3DAWF under the Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) projectile impact. Numerical simulation of 3DAWF under ballistic impact employing strain rate effect material models was established to capture the yarns’ behaviors under high-speed impact loadings. Membrane elements construct a full-size mesoscale model based on real 3DAWF structure to improve computational efficiencies. The ballistic impact tests of 3DAWF subjected to the FMJ projectile were carried out to validate and evaluate the finite element analysis (FEA) model. From the results of the tests and theoretical model, it was found that the FEA model exhibits a relatively good correlation with tests on residual velocities, deformation, and damages. This work revealed the impact damage evolution, energy absorption mechanism, and the stress wave distribution in the 3DAWF, and the findings are instructive for the design of 3DAWF for ballistic protection.