The influences of interface effect of stuffed layer on the performance of improved Whipple shields

Abstract

The influences of interface effect of stuffed layer on the performance of improved Whipple shields were studied by hypervelocity impact tests on different stuffed structures. Stuffed structures included aluminum plate, multilayer polyester films, multilayer insulator, ceramic and aramid fabric layer. The shields were impacted by the 5 mm-diameter Al alloy projectile, and the velocities were from 4.5 km/s to 4.9 km/s. Test results show that the interface effect improves the shielding performance. The interface effect could be increased by the following methods under the same areal density. The first method is to increase the number of the stuffed layers and to stick the layers loosely. The second method is to place the stuffed layer alternatively from high wave impedance to low wave impedance along the impact direction. The third method is to choose the material of lower density. The interface between the stuffed layer and the rear wall is realized by their space distance. The interface effect should be considered during the process of designing, machining, assembling, fixing and bracing the stuffed layer.