ABSTRACT
In this paper, the response of woven fabric composites against ballistic impact has been investigated using the analytical model of Ref. [1]. This model is based on energy transfer between the projectile and the target and requires mechanical and fracture properties as well as geometry of target and projectile parameters as input. The main assumptions considered in the analytical model are presented. The equations used for predicting the dissipated energy mechanisms during the ballistic perforation of woven fabric composites are also presented. The governing equations of the model are arranged and compiled into a MATLAB program. The present model predicts the projectile energy loss during the ballistic perforation of woven fabric composites and the corresponding reduction in projectile velocity. The present model is adapted to predict the ballistic resistance of multi-layered textile targets.
Furthermore, an experimental program has been conducted to study the normal perforation of a 9 mm projectile into multi-layered textile and woven fabric composites. This program is concerned with the determination of ballistic resistance for a set of targets, consisting of multi-layered twaron and E-glass textiles, twaron/epoxy and E-glass/epoxy composites with different thicknesses. Ballistic measurements are compared with the model predictions; good agreement is generally obtained. The obtained predicted results prove the capability of the analytical model in predicting the response of multi-layered textile and woven fabric composite targets, respectively, when impacted by 9 mm projectile.