The effect of thickness on aramid fabric laminates subjected to 7.62 MM ammunition ballistic impact

Abstract

Due to increasing improvement of weaponry and ammunition, attention is being given to the development of new materials that could more effectively resist to ballistic impact. In order to stop high energy bullets, with speed above 800 m/s, a high strength material is necessary. However, if just one material is used, then a relatively thick piece is required, which might affect negatively the wearer mobility. The objective of this work is to investigate the effect of thickness on the ballistic behavior of aramid fabric laminates, Kevlar®, hit by high energy bullet. The purpose is to find the minimum thickness to avoid perforation. Ballistic tests using conventional 7.62 mm ammunition were performed according to standard procedures. The macro and microscopic aspects of the target specimens were evaluated. The results showed a change in the ballistic behavior of the laminates as their thickness increased. It was found that until the laminate was able to capture the bullet, 96 layers (~50 mm) were required. This is significantly higher than the necessary thickness for a multilayered armor to stop the same 7.62 mm bullet.