Ballistic Test Results Research Articles

Experimental and numerical study on CuO/ZnO-modified aramid fabric for ballistic and UV radiation protection

Aramid fabrics are widely used in bulletproof armor because of their excellent mechanical properties. Previous studies have shown that ultraviolet radiation has a negative effect on the mechanical properties of aramid yarn, so improving the mechanical properties and impact resistance of aramid fabrics under ultraviolet radiation has become a research focus. In this work, aramid fabric was modified with CuO and ZnO particles to improve its ballistic performance under ultraviolet radiation. The ballistic impact resistance response and microscopic failure mechanisms of aramid fabrics under ultraviolet radiation were analyzed in detail. Under ultraviolet radiation, the ballistic limit velocity (vbl) of the CuO/ZnO-modified aramid fabric was 185.1 % greater than that of a neat fabric with a similar areal density. The vbl of the single-layer modified fabric was 45.6 % greater than that of the two-layer neat fabrics. The decrease in the ballistic performance of the aramid fabric under ultraviolet radiation was attributed to surface damage caused by the fracture of the chemical structure of the fibers, which weakened the mechanical properties of the fabric. The numerical simulation results were highly consistent with the ballistic impact test results, and the error between the numerical simulation and experimental results was within 10 %. The effects of changes in the mechanical parameters of the fabrics on the protection mechanism and energy absorption structure during ballistic impact were investigated. The energy dissipation of the modified fabric was at least 147.7 % greater than that of the neat fabric, further explaining the significant improvement in the ballistic performance of CuO/ZnO-modified fabrics under ultraviolet radiation.

Experimental and finite element analysis of ballistic properties of composite armor made of alumina, carbon and UHMWPE

AbstractThe performance of multi‐layer ceramic/composite ballistic armor consisting of Alumina, Carbon fiber, and Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) under the impact of 7.62 × 51 M61 caliber armor‐piercing (AP) bullets was examined by experimental and finite element methods. The alumina ceramic thickness used in the experiments is 12 mm. The composite structure thickness used in all samples is 10 mm. Explicit dynamic analyses were also conducted using the Ls‐Dyna to verify the experimental studies. The analysis results were compared with experimental studies and evaluated by considering the damage status of the bullet and armor. According to ballistic test results, partial penetration was observed in all armor produced. The front ceramic layer caused corrosion of the bullet, and a mushrooming effect occurred on it. The carbon fiber layer has dramatically helped as an alternative or support to UHMWPE. Since the results obtained with the carbon fiber ratios used remain within the standards, it will not pose a problem regarding usage. On the contrary, using carbon fiber, which is relatively easier to produce and supply than UHMWPE and more economically suitable, will provide more significant benefits. Experimental and numerical studies have revealed consistent results for all armors.Highlights The effect of a 7.62 × 51 armor‐piercing bullet on ceramic/composite armor was examined. Carbon fiber and UHMWPE hybrid structure was created in different thicknesses. The carbon fiber layer has dramatically helped as an alternative or support to UHMWPE. Using carbon fiber, which is relatively easier to produce and supply than UHMWPE and is more economically suitable. Experimental and numerical studies have revealed consistent results for all armors.

Effects of ZrO2 ceramics doped with varying content on the mechanical properties and energy release characteristics of W-Zr alloys

A W-Zr alloy doped with ceramic powder W54.5Zr35-xNi6.7Fe3.3Mo0.5 (ZrO2) x was prepared by powder metallurgy. The effects of the ceramic content on the dynamic and static compressive mechanical behavior and energy release properties of the alloy were studied. The results showed that the addition of ceramics enhanced the energy release characteristics of the W-Zr alloy, and made the alloy break more thoroughly and the fragment cloud distribute evenly. The reaction delay time was shorter and the energy release reaction was more complete. However, the maximum temperature of the alloy reaction decreased. In addition, the addition of ceramics improves the mechanical properties of the material, and its compressive strength is much higher than that of traditional W-Zr alloys.(ZrO2)1 exhibited good mechanical behavior and energy release characteristics. The aftereffect damage performance was further verified using a ballistic gun experiment. Ballistic gun test results showed that (ZrO2) 1 can penetrate A92124 aluminum targets with a thickness of 2 mm at a speed of 809.3 m s−1 and ignite post-target absorbent cotton, with both penetration and post-target damage capabilities.

Simulation of the Performance of Kevlar Impregnated Shear Thickening Fluid Ballistic Test Results (STF) Ballistic Test Results

This study explores the enhancement of Kevlar fabric’s ballistic performance through impregnation with Shear Thickening Fluid (STF) for potential application in soft body armor. The experimental approach often fails to elucidate mechanical phenomena critical for the development of lightweight and high-strength body armor designs. To address this limitation, the finite element method, specifically using ANSYS/LS-DYNA R.13, was employed for a comprehensive analysis. The simulation aimed to evaluate the impact of STF on Kevlar fabric by assessing projectile velocity, force exerted by the projectile onto the fabric, displacement, stress distribution, and fabric failure mechanisms. Kevlar yarn was modeled as a shell element formed into fabric with a sine wave profile, investigating two types of STF: SiO2-PEG200 (S0) and SiO2-PEG200-B4C (S1), differing in maximum viscosities. The addition of STF resulted in increased coefficients of friction on Kevlar, with the highest values observed for the SiO2-PEG200-B4C impregnated fabric ( =0.87 and =0.82). The incorporation of the second STF type (S1) significantly reduced the projectile’s velocity from an initial 200 m/s to 153.2 m/s upon impact. Additionally, the force on the S1 fabric surged to 121,556 N, a threefold increase compared to neat Kevlar. STF's influence was further evidenced by enhanced fabric displacement and more uniform stress distribution upon ballistic impact. The fabric's thickening upon failure indicated STF's ability to enlarge the deformation area, facilitating uniform distribution of ballistic kinetic energy across the impact zone. Notably, the fabric impregnated with the second type of STF, featuring boron carbide (S1), demonstrated superior ballistic performance. This study concludes that STF-impregnated Kevlar fabric, particularly the SiO2-PEG200-B4C variant, not only surpasses the ballistic performance of neat Kevlar but also meets the criteria for NIJ Level IIIA standards, highlighting its potential as a highly effective material for advanced soft body armor designs.

Superior mechanical and ballistic performance of carbon nanotube‐reinforced phenolic/aramid fabric composites via a two‐roll pressing process

AbstractIn this study, aramid fiber (AF)/phenolic resin prepreg was fabricated by impregnating low content carbon nanotube (CNT)‐reinforced phenolic resin with aramid fabric through a two‐roll pressing process. Both non‐functionalized and carboxylic‐functionalized CNTs (CNTs and CNTs‐COOH) were used for comparison study. For each of the formulations, composite laminate was made by a hot‐pressing process with a number of the prepregs stacked together. Mechanical properties and ballistic performance of the laminates and material failure mechanisms were evaluated and analyzed. Both non‐functionalized and CNTs‐COOH can effectively improve the mechanical and ballistic performance of the laminates. With CNTs‐COOH reinforcement, better results were achieved. As compared with the laminate without CNT reinforcement, 1.0 wt% CNTs‐COOH‐reinforced laminate showed 19.41%, 22.29%, and 45.83% improvement in tensile, flexural, and adhesion shear strength, respectively. The ballistic test results showed that the V50 and the specific energy absorption (SEA) were increased by 5.77% and 13.44%, respectively. The correlation between mechanical and ballistic performance of the composites was analyzed and conducted.

Application of single and multi-solid phase STFs to Twaron fabrics: evaluation of energy absorption performances

The present study aims to enhance the energy absorption performance of Twaron aramid fabrics by impregnating them with single and multi-solid phase shear thickening fluids (STFs). To investigate the energy absorption capacity of Twaron 200 and Twaron 460 fabrics, surface friction, yarn tensile, and ballistic tests have been performed. Silicon carbide (SiC), graphene nanoplate (GNP), and carbon nanotube (CNT) are utilized both individually and in hybrid forms to examine the impact of multi-solid phase STFs. The research reveals that STFs reinforced with SiC and GNP exhibit higher viscosity and rheological behavior compared to other hybrid nanoparticles. The addition of SiC and GNP reinforced STF (STF/SiC + GNP) suspension significantly increases the friction coefficient by approximately 82% for Twaron 200 and 120% for Twaron 460 in comparison to neat fabric. Moreover, the maximum yarn tensile strength of Twaron 460 is higher than that of Twaron 200 in both neat and STF impregnated fabrics. The research also states that STF impregnation procedure improves the ballistic performance of neat fabrics in both fabric types. The ballistic test results show an increase in the protective performance of STF impregnated fabrics reinforced with nanoparticles. The best ballistic performance is found in STF/SiC + GNP impregnated fabrics in Twaron 200 and Twaron 460 samples.

A progressive damage model associated with dynamic fracture toughness and IFF criterion with a fast search algorithm of fracture angle

This paper presents a quick search algorithm of the fracture angle of inter-fiber fracture (IFF) criterion and a progressive damage model considering the dynamic fracture toughness effect. The fracture angle determination of the IFF criterion is necessary and time-consuming, which has limited its practicality. Therefore, to accurately calculate stress exposure factors under various combinations of stress states, a highly efficient algorithm is needed. In this paper, a novel algorithm using stress tractions on the fracture plane and the golden section search (GSS) is promoted. Through a series of simulation tests, this novel algorithm has been proven to be exact and efficient compared with other two common algorithms, which saves an average of 63.2 % and 28.1 % of the time in 1 million calculations and 2 h 2 min 4 sec and 39 min 2 sec in simulations. Additionally, fracture toughness, which controls material damage evolution process, also has strain-rate effect like elastic modulus and strength. Hence, a new progressive damage model considering the dynamic fracture toughness effect is proposed. The results of dynamic compression and ballistic impact tests and simulations demonstrate the fidelity of the novel damage model.

New Approach for Manufacturing Ti–6Al–4V+40%TiC Metal-Matrix Composites by 3D Printing Using Conic Electron Beam and Cored Wire. Pt. 2: Layered MMC/Alloy Materials, Their Main Characteristics, and Possible Application as Ballistic Resistant Materials

Bilayer samples comprised of hard metal-matrix composite top layer and ductile 10 mm Ti–6Al–4V plate are produced with 3D printing by conical electron-beam method using specially prepared core (powder) wire that allows forming hard top layer of metal-matrix (Ti–6Al–4V) composite (MMC) reinforced by means of fine TiC particles with thickness up to 4 mm. Ballistic tests performed with 7.62×51 AP ammunition show a good ballistic resistance of this protective structure, i.e., it is not perforated. Only minor penetration and partial fracture are occurred exclusively in the surface MMC layer. Either no traces of plastic deformation are found at the boundary with the base layer or inside it that indicates that the MMC layer absorbs the entire impact energy of the projectile. Based on studies of the fine structure and texture of the interface between the layers, a reasonable assumption is made that wavy geometry of MMC layer provides additional deflection and scattering of stress waves generated during impact. Comparing the results of ballistic tests of various metallic materials, it is concluded that the 3D-printed bilayer material consisting of the upper Ti–6Al–4V + 40% TiC layer and the base Ti–6Al–4V layer has an undeniable advantage in ballistic performance when it is tested with cartridges of this type.

Influence of projectile physical state on ballistic energy absorption capacity of UHMWPE laminate: Experiment and simulation

This paper presents the influence of projectile physical state on ballistic energy absorption capacity of UHMWPE laminate. Specifically, standard fragment simulating projectile (FSP) and 7.62 mm × 39 mm mild steel core projectile (MSCP) are utilized to perforate two kinds of areal density laminate. Internal damage morphologies of post-impact laminate are characterized via X-ray computer tomography (CT). A sub-laminate discretization approach was used to establish numerical laminate model, and decoupling parametric studies of projectile state were performed. Results of ballistic tests show that ballistic energy absorption capacity of laminate depends on projectile state and laminate areal density. Multi scale damage morphologies analysis indicate that shear fracture and multi-layer delamination failure are the primary failure modes of post-impact laminate, which were in good agreement with simulation results. Results of parametric studies suggest that high-speed spin of projectile will cause torsional deformation of laminate.

Experimental study on the effect of ceramic properties on failure behavior of composite armor

AbstractSeveral commonly used ceramics in ballistic protection were compared in terms of ballistic resistance and failure behavior, including alumina (Al2O3), silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B4C), and silicon nitride (Si3N4). Hybrid ceramic ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene composite armors were impacted by 12.7 mm armor‐piercing incendiary projectiles, with a velocity of around 490 m/s. Moreover, there was a layer of aramid fabric composite covering on the impacted side of the ceramic plate. These composite armors were paneled with four different types of ceramics as faceplates and had the same sizes. The ballistic test results show that B4C ceramic provides the worst protection performance, and SiC provides the best protection performance. The angles of ceramic cones formed by different ceramic plates under the same impact load are different, SiC is the widest and Al2O3 is the narrowest. Numerical simulation shows that several ceramic composite targets have the same resistance to the projectile at the pit stage. The fragment mass was quantified by using the screening method, and the results show that the Schumann distribution is more consistent with the experimental results.

On the ballistic perforation performance of additively manufactured 316 L stainless steel cylindrical projectiles

The applications of structures made through additive manufacturing (AM) have recently received much attention. In this study, 316 L stainless steel (SS316L) blanks with different dimensions were printed and machined into material specimens and projectiles. Then, metallurgical investigations were conducted to study the microstructures of the as-built AM SS316L samples. Uniaxial tensile and dynamic compression tests were conducted to study the mechanical behaviors of AM SS316L in the material deposition direction. Next, a ballistic test was performed to determine the ability of AM cylindrical blunt projectiles to penetrate Weldox 460E steel plates. The results of the microstructure analysis of the remnants were examined, and the mechanism of microcrack formation in a molten pool was revealed. The results indicate that the molten pool structures may be a key factor affecting the ballistic performance of AM projectiles. For comparison, the tests described above were repeated on traditional cold-rolled (CR) SS316L materials. The ballistic test results show that the ballistic limit velocity of AM projectiles is 8.8% higher than that of CR projectiles, implying no significant decrease in ballistic performance for AM projectiles from an offensive view. Finally, based on a modified Johnson-Cook model, a numerical simulation was implemented in LS-DYNA. The numerical results are in good agreement with the experimental results. This research provides a reference for the application of AM materials in ballistic perforation.

Modeling and ballistic tests of selected soft point projectiles in a water medium

Methods used nowadays in forensic laboratories allow to stop some kinds of projectiles with degree of deformation which lets to use them for comparing traces to projectiles found on the crime scene. However they are not useful for every type of projectiles. Comparative physical tests are enough to indicate the best method for soft catching projectiles. For this aim point of view no modeling needed. The paper presents the results of ballistic tests of impact of chosen types of soft point projectiles into water. The behavior of projectiles of various shapes, with different kinetic energy, was analyzed. On the basis of the obtained results, the projectiles with the highest susceptibility to deformation were identified. Research works described in the paper were performed within the framework of the project Laboratory stand for stopping high-energy projectiles financed from the National Centre for Research and Development (Agreement no. DOB-BIO10/04/02/ 2019). The project is implemented in cooperation with Warsaw University of Technology, Military Institute of Armament Technology and Tebbex 2 since 2019 to 2022.

Experimental and numerical study on the ballistic performance of a ZnO-modified aramid fabric

Aramid fabrics are widely used for human protection due to their high strength and softness. Recent studies have shown that growing ZnO nanoparticles on fibers improves the mechanical properties of the fabrics. In this work, the process for preparation of ZnO-modified aramid fabrics was optimized. The mechanical properties and interyarn friction of ZnO-modified fabrics increased with increasing concentration of preparation solution and upon addition of coupling agent. The ballistic properties of the ZnO-modified fabric were improved compared with those of unmodified fabric. In particular, Z2 fabric (with added coupling agent) showed the best ballistic performance based on areal density. The ballistic limiting velocities of the single-layer, 2-layer, and 3-layer Z2 fabrics were 109.1%, 98.3%, and 67.8% higher than that of unmodified fabric, and the areal density was only increased by 8.2%. Compared with 2-layer and 3-layer unmodified fabrics, the ballistic limiting velocities of single-layer and 2-layer Z2 fabric were increased by 16% and 35.6%, respectively, and the areal densities were reduced by 45.9% and 27.9%. The results of simulations and ballistic tests were consistent, indicating that ZnO modification improved the ballistic performance of the fabrics by increasing interyarn friction and tensile properties of the fabric.

Design and Ballistic Performance of Hybrid Plates Manufactured from Aramid Composites for Developing Multilayered Armor Systems.

In this study, the impact resistance of aramid fabric reinforced with shear thickening fluids (STFs), epoxy or polyurea elastomers is examined through ballistic tests. According to the ballistic test results, the aramid composite structure treated with polyurea elastomers absorbs the most impact energy per unit area density and has the best impact resistance. However, the occurrence of stress concentration during ballistic impact reduces the impact resistance of the aramid composite structure treated with epoxy. On the other hand, aramid fabric impregnated with STF improves structural protection, but it also increases the weight of the composite structure and reduces the specific energy absorption (SEA). The results of this study analyze the energy absorption properties, deformation characteristics, and damage modes of different aramid composites, which will be of interest to future researchers developing next-generation protective equipment.

Ballistic impact analyses of foam-filled double-arrow auxetic structure

In present study, the foam-filled composite double-arrow auxetic structures were obtained by the mold hot pressing method, bonding technology and stirring foaming process. The ballistic impact tests of the foam-filled composite double-arrow auxetic structure were carried out, and the effect of foam filling on the ballistic impact response of the composite double-arrow auxetic structure was analyzed. The ballistic impact test results indicated that the ballistic limit velocity of the foam-filled double-arrow auxetic structure with the relative density of 16.66% was 121.30 m/s. With the increase of the incident kinetic energy of the projectile, the specific energy absorption of the foam-filled auxetic structure increased first and then decreased, and remained near the horizontal line of 550 J/kg at last. Compared to unfilled auxetic structure, the ballistic limit velocity of foam-filled auxetic structure increased by 6.12% and the energy absorption property of foam-filled auxetic structure was improved. The ballistic impact performances of foam-filled composite double-arrow auxetic structures were studied by finite element method. The simulation results of foam-filled auxetic structure with RD=16.66% were in good agreement with the experimental results. The simulation results demonstrated that the ballistic limit velocities of foam-filled composite auxetic structures with relative densities of 9.08%, 16.66% and 23.06% were 86.74 m/s, 120.60 m/s and 152.80 m/s, respectively. Furthermore, the increase of relative density had a positive effect on improving the anti-penetration performance of foam-filled composite auxetic structures.

Influence of strain-rate related parameters on the simulation of ballistic impact in woven composites

The mechanical behaviour of strain-rate-dependent materials varies when they are exposed to dynamic conditions (compared with static ones), and material parameters like modulus, strength, and failure strain may depend on the loading rate. Simulation of the ballistic impact effect on composite materials may be strongly dependant on the suitable calibration of the strain rate effect on their constitutive law. Indeed, knowledge of the strain rate-dependent properties is of great interest but still lacks comprehensive studies (i.e., the effect on the mechanical parameters, besides strength, is commonly ignored). In the present work, three meso-heterogeneous models for 2D woven glass-fibre composites under impact loading were built considering strain rate-dependent strength, modulus and failure strain, coupled with macro-homogeneous models with and without the strain rate effect on strength. All the numerical predictions were compared with actual ballistic test results. It was found that the accuracy in residual velocity and damage morphology predictions can be improved by considering the strain rate effect on modulus and failure strain.

Ballistic Resistance of Steel with the Structure of a Natural Ferrite-Martensitic Composite

Introduction. For steel armor materials, it is important to reduce the thickness and, consequently, the metal consumption of the protective structure. The previously developed class of materials with the structure of a natural ferrite-martensite composite (NFMC) has characteristics that favor the inhibition of crack development under impact loads and has prospects as an armor material.Problem Statement. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the possibility of using NFMC materials for armor protection devices based on the results of ballistic resistance tests under a high-power concentrated impact (a projectile flying at a hyper-high speed).Theoretical Part. The study of ballistic resistance was carried out on samples of steel 14G2 processed according to various modes. The samples had the shape of plates and a square grid on the surface. Simulation tests of the impact of heat-strengthened dowels from a powder-actuated tool and firing of military small arms at the testing site from an SVD sniper rifle and an AK-74 assault rifle with machine loading ammunition were carried out. The results of simulation tests showed a clear advantage of steel with the NFMC structure. The comparison of the results of firing with military small arms has showed that the ballistic resistance of steel with the NFMC structure depends on the ratio of the volume fractions of ferrite and martensite, which cause different thicknesses of the ductile and strong components of the composite. The highest resistance was observed for a sample with an NFMC structure processed according to the regime: quenching 730°C and tempering 180°C.Conclusions. Steels treated for the NFMC structure can provide effective protection for military personnel with a lower material consumption of armor protection devices, which is due to a special method of braking destruction during a high-power local impact. Thus, the practical application of the developed class of natural composite materials seems promising for obtaining an armor plate with a thinner thickness, which helps to reduce the weight of combat vehicles, increase their mobility and reduce fuel consumption.

Ballistic response of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene laminate impacted by mild steel core projectiles

This paper presents the effect of interlaminar shear property on the ballistic response of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber composite laminate and discusses the detailed progressive ballistic damage process. Specifically, two kinds of UHMWPE fiber composite laminates with different interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) are impacted by a standard projectile (7.62 mm × 39 mm), and their multi-scale internal damage morphologies are characterized. Based on damage patterns, an evaluation model of laminate energy absorption is established to analyze the dissipation mechanism of the kinetic energy of the projectile. Results of ballistic tests indicate that the reduction of ILSS may result in the degradation of anti-penetration performance and in more serious internal damage. Internal damage morphologies show that shear fracture and delamination fracture are the primary failure modes during ballistic impact. The energy absorption by the laminate via tensile deformation, delamination failure and shear failure may account for 56.21%, 17.45%, and 16.49% of the projectile kinetic energy, respectively. Hence, tensile deformation may be the primary energy dissipation mechanism of projectile kinetic energy.

Study on Bulge State of PCrNi3MoV Target Plates Penetrated by Square Fragments

The objective of this study was to study the penetration characteristics of tungsten alloy fragments on PCrNi3MoV target plates. Specifically, the penetration of square tungsten alloy fragments of gun steel target plates of different thicknesses were studied using a ballistic gun launching device. Based on the ballistic test results, the relationship between the bulge height of the target plate and the kinetic energy of the fragments was obtained, and the failure mode and process of the tungsten alloy fragments penetrating the steel target were analyzed. Then, the variation on the bulge height of the target plate with the kinetic energy of the fragments was obtained using dimensional analysis. The prediction results were consistent with the test results, and thus, the prediction model can be used in practical applications.

Experimental Performance Evaluation of Small Solid Rocket Motor with Composite Case for Environmental Conditions

Polymeric composites are widely used in aerospace. One such important use of polymeric composites is the filament-wound composite case for the Solid Rocket Motor (SRM). Environmental conditions expected during flight and other phases of the SRM’s life cycle affect its performance. The performance of SRM, in turn, depends primarily on the composite case and propellant grain. In this study, the performance evaluation of SRM with the composite case is carried out for different environmental conditions. These cases are designed to sustain very high pressure and temperature environments generated due to the combustion of propellant grains and are intended to perform adequately at any time during their service life. The performance evaluation test matrix is formulated considering various expected dynamic and thermal conditions. The small SRM with a composite case is subjected to planned tests as per the matrix, followed by static tests. The pressure versus time data is plotted for all test conditions. The ballistic parameters result of the virgin (without subjecting it to any test) small SRM is considered as a reference for comparative studies with the rest of all other test conditions results. All the ballistic performance test results are also analysed with respect to the pressure-time curve for mission bounds. The analysis of experimental test results reveals that various environmental dynamic conditions like random vibration, acceleration and shock, do not affect the composite case and the ballistic performance of a small SRM. The effect of grain temperature on ballistic performance is also found as expected.