Ballistic Performance of Kevlar49/ UHMW-PEHB26 Hybrid Layered-Composite

Abstract

This experimental study investigates the effects of plies number on ballistic performance of Kevlar49/ UHMW-PEHB26 (ultra high molecular weight polyethylene) layered-hybrid composite. Ballistic performance of the composite samples is explained in terms of trauma depth, energy absorption capacity and the mechanisms that lead to perforation in varied composite samples. Ballistic tests are performed according to NIJ 0101.04 Level-III standards. The results is showed that the produced composite samples excluding Type V-composite provide Level IIIA protection according to NIJ 0101.04 standard. The critical number of ply for Kevlar49/ UHMW-PEHB26 layered-hybrid composite is obtained as 16 plies consisting of 8 plies for each fabrics. Trauma depth increases with decreasing total number of plies in the composite samples. The energy absorption capability of the layered-composite decreases with decreasing total number of plies. Energy absorption mechanisms are explained by strain energy of the plies due to straining and fracture of yarns, delamination of plies and layers, and friction energy between plies, and the mobility of yarns.