Thickness assessment and statistical optimization of a 3-layered armor system with ceramic front and curaua fabric composite/aluminum alloy backing

Abstract

The curaua fiber is one of the strongest natural lignocellulosic fibers and its non-woven fabric has potential for engineering applications. Recent investigation on multilayered armor systems (MAS) using natural fiber and fabric composites has shown promising results. In the present work, a MAS with front alumina ceramic followed by a curaua fabric-reinforced composite and backed by an Al alloy is investigated for the influence of the thickness/areal density of layers in the ballistic behavior of the armor. For the first time, an optimized thickness ratio for the layers is proposed. The Box-Behnken Design (BBD) and Multiple Regression Analysis (MRA) are applied to study the MAS properties and to improve the armors performance. Standard ballistic tests are performed, and the back-face signature (indentation in clay witness also known as trauma) is used as a measure of the MAS performance. The results reveal which is the most trauma absorptive layer, while the fracture mechanisms indicate the synergy between the layers. An optimized thickness ratio showed 56% reduction in the armor thickness compared to a fully aramid laminate armor as well as 8.8% reduction compared to the previous studied thickness ratio.