Effects of Hybrid Arrangement and Location of the Stronger Layer on the Impact Resistance of Composite Plate Target

Abstract

In this paper, response of hybrid woven fabric (E-Glass, Kevlar)/polyester composite laminates subjected to high velocity impact loading is discussed. E-Glass plain weaves with on layer of 3-end satin Kevlar were used to manufacture the laminate using toughened commercial polyester resin system with a curing infusion molding process. For fabrication of laminates, a 3-location of Kevlar lamia was used to reinforce the E-Glass, which are front, back and in the center of the composite. Laminates used in the study were made of 4, 6 and 10 layers of Glass in addition of one Kevlar layer.
Four laminates of each type were subjected to high velocity impact loading at different velocity to determine the ballistic limit using the developed impact tester with computerized chronograph not only measure the incident and resting velocity but also measure the approximate perforation time.
Results of the study indicate that the damage was well contained within the Kevlar lamina. However, ballistic limit was higher for the composite has the Kevlar layer in the back of the target, while it was lower for the case when the Kevlar layer in the front location. Ballistic limit increased with the increase in the thickness of the laminate. Further, satin weave laminates exhibited higher ballistic limits in most of the cases.