Aramid fiber reinforced laminar thermoplastic composite materials

Abstract

In order to obtain a composite material with desired improved resistance to penetration of ballistic projectile, a poly(p-phenyleneterephthalamide) reinforced laminar thermoplastic composite material has been made. This paper describes the procedure of manufacturing such composite material, and its response during the ballistically and micromehanically testing as well. The analysis of impact resistance results obtained from ballistically tested and untested composite panel specimens has shown an improved mechanical energy absorption capability due to effect of strong aramid fibers, ductile thermoplastic matrix and interface between fiber and matrix. This interface enables load transfer between the two constituents using high load-bearing capacity of the reinforcement. Another feature of the interface is deflection of propagating cracks within the material and thus increasing toughness.