Ballistic performance of FRP – steel layered structures

In this study, the impact performance of layered structures made of aramid/epoxy, S2 glass/epoxy, Dyneema and steel subjected to high velocity impact is presented. All materials were previously examined using proper techniques of strength tests. The procedure allowed determining Young’s moduli, Poisson’s ratio, ultimate compression and tension strength, shear modulus. The ballistic test procedure was based on standards for testing panels and armour plates. For the purpose of ballistic tests, standard 5.56 NATO ammunition (183 g) was used. The aim of presented work was to determine ballistic performance of different structures under bullet impact. During the tests, subsequent time moments were recorded using Phantom V12 high-speed camera. When structure penetration did occur, the residual velocity of bullet was measured using PVM-21 lightscreen. Basing on the results, each material performance was evaluated. This paper reviewed a number of mechanisms that influence the ballistic performance of ballistic textiles. The composites reinforced with continuous fibres (aramid, S2 glass) could effectively absorb the kinematic energy of bullet. The efficiency of energy absorption for each types of material in the order from highest is as follows: polyethylene fibres Dyneema HB50, composite reinforced with S2 glass fibres, composite reinforced with aramid fibres.