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da Cunha JDSC, Nascimento LFC, Costa UO, Bezerra WBA, Oliveira MS, Marques MDFV, Soares APS, Monteiro SN. Ballistic Behavior of Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Amazon Titica Vine Fibers ( Heteropsis flexuosa) in Multilayered Armor System and as Stand-Alone Target. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3550. [PMID: 37688176 PMCID: PMC10490357 DOI: 10.3390/polym15173550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Seeking to improve personal armor equipment by providing mobility and resistance to penetration, this research aimed to explore the potential of sustainable materials in order to assess their ability in ballistic applications. Titica vine fibers (TVFs) extracted from aerial roots of Heteropsis flexuosa from the Amazon region were incorporated at 10, 20, 30, and 40 vol% into an epoxy matrix for applications in ballistic multilayered armor systems (MASs) and stand-alone tests for personal protection against high-velocity 7.62 mm ammunition. The back-face signature (BFS) depth measured for composites with 20 and 40 vol% TVFs used as an intermediate layer in MASs was 25.6 and 32.5 mm, respectively, and below the maximum limit of 44 mm set by the international standard. Fracture mechanisms found by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) attested the relevance of increasing the fiber content for applications in MASs. The results of stand-alone tests showed that the control (0 vol%) and samples with 20 vol% TVFs absorbed the highest impact energy (Eabs) (212-176 J), and consequently displayed limit velocity (VL) values (213-194 m/s), when compared with 40 vol% fiber composites. However, the macroscopic evaluation found that, referring to the control samples, the plain epoxy shattered completely. In addition, for 10 and 20 vol% TVFs, the composites were fragmented or exhibited delamination fractures, which compromised their physical integrity. On the other hand, composites with 30 and 40 vol% TVFs, whose Eabs and VL varied between 166-130 J and 189-167 m/s, respectively, showed the best physical stability. The SEM images indicated that for composites with 10 and 20 vol% TVFs, the fracture mode was predominantly brittle due to the greater participation of the epoxy resin and the discrete action of the fibers, while for composites with 30 and 40 vol% TVFs, there was activation of more complex mechanisms such as pullout, shearing, and fiber rupture. These results indicate that the TVF composite has great potential for use in bulletproof vests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana dos Santos Carneiro da Cunha
- Department of Materials Science, Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Praça General Tibúrcio, 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, RJ, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (U.O.C.); (W.B.A.B.); (M.S.O.); (S.N.M.)
| | - Lucio Fabio Cassiano Nascimento
- Department of Materials Science, Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Praça General Tibúrcio, 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, RJ, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (U.O.C.); (W.B.A.B.); (M.S.O.); (S.N.M.)
| | - Ulisses Oliveira Costa
- Department of Materials Science, Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Praça General Tibúrcio, 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, RJ, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (U.O.C.); (W.B.A.B.); (M.S.O.); (S.N.M.)
| | - Wendell Bruno Almeida Bezerra
- Department of Materials Science, Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Praça General Tibúrcio, 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, RJ, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (U.O.C.); (W.B.A.B.); (M.S.O.); (S.N.M.)
| | - Michelle Souza Oliveira
- Department of Materials Science, Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Praça General Tibúrcio, 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, RJ, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (U.O.C.); (W.B.A.B.); (M.S.O.); (S.N.M.)
| | - Maria de Fátima Vieira Marques
- Institute of Macromolecules Professor Eloisa Mano, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Horácio Macedo Av., 2.030, Bloco J, University City, Rio de Janeiro 21941-598, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Ana Paula Senra Soares
- Department of Organic Processes, School of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-598, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Sergio Neves Monteiro
- Department of Materials Science, Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Praça General Tibúrcio, 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, RJ, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (U.O.C.); (W.B.A.B.); (M.S.O.); (S.N.M.)
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Curaua–Aramid Hybrid Laminated Composites for Impact Applications: Flexural, Charpy Impact and Elastic Properties. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14183749. [PMID: 36145894 PMCID: PMC9500799 DOI: 10.3390/polym14183749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Curaua, as a leaf-based natural fiber, appears to be a promising component with aramid fabric reinforcement of hybrid composites. This work deals with the investigation of flexural, impact and elastic properties of non-woven curaua–aramid fabric hybrid epoxy composites. Five configurations of hybrid composites in a curaua non-woven mat with an increasing quantity of layers, up to four layers, were laminated through the conventional hand lay-up method. The proposed configurations were idealized with at least 60 wt% reinforcement in the non-alternating configuration. As a result, it was observed that the flexural strength decreased by 33% and the flexural modulus by 56%. In addition, the energy absorbed in the Charpy impact also decreased in the same proportion as the replaced amount of aramid. Through the impulse excitation technique, it was possible observe that the replacement of the aramid layers with the curaua layers resulted in decreased elastic properties. However, reduction maps revealed proportional advantages in hybridizing the curaua with the aramid fiber. Moreover, the hybrid composite produced an almost continuous and homogeneous material, reducing the possibility of delamination and transverse deformation, which revealed an impact-resistant performance.
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Dynamic and Ballistic Performance of Uni- and Bidirectional Pineapple Leaf Fibers (PALF)-Reinforced Epoxy Composites Functionalized with Graphene Oxide. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14163249. [PMID: 36015506 PMCID: PMC9412585 DOI: 10.3390/polym14163249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Replacing synthetic fibers with natural ones as reinforcement in polymeric composites is an alternative to contribute to sustainability. Pineapple leaf fibers (PALF) have specific mechanical properties that allow their use as reinforcement. Further, graphene oxide (GO) has aroused interest due to its distinctive properties that allow the improvement of fiber/matrix interfacial adhesion. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the ballistic performance and energy absorption properties of PALF-reinforced composites, presenting different conditions (i.e., GO-functionalization, and variation of fibers volume fraction and arrangement) through residual velocity and Izod impact tests. ANOVA was used to verify the variability and reliability of the results. SEM was employed to visualize the failure mechanisms. The Izod impact results revealed a significant increase in the absorbed energy with the increment of fiber volume fraction for the unidirectional configuration. The ballistic results indicated that the bidirectional arrangement was responsible for better physical integrity after the projectile impact. Furthermore, bidirectional samples containing 30 vol.% of GO non-functionalized fibers in a GO-reinforced matrix showed the best results, indicating its possible application as a second layer in multilayered armor systems.
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Lin H, Chen G, Li W, Cai L, Liu W. Study on impact resistance of
Nano‐SiO
2
reinforced
STG
/Kevlar composites. POLYM ENG SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pen.26042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Lin
- Institute of Military New Energy Technology, Institute of Systems Engineering Academy of Military Sciences Beijing People's Republic of China
- School of Mechanical Electronic & Information Engineering China University of Mining & Technology Beijing People's Republic of China
| | - Guojing Chen
- Institute of Military New Energy Technology, Institute of Systems Engineering Academy of Military Sciences Beijing People's Republic of China
| | - Wanli Li
- Institute of Military New Energy Technology, Institute of Systems Engineering Academy of Military Sciences Beijing People's Republic of China
| | - Lihai Cai
- Institute of Military New Energy Technology, Institute of Systems Engineering Academy of Military Sciences Beijing People's Republic of China
| | - Wenyan Liu
- School of Mechanical Electronic & Information Engineering China University of Mining & Technology Beijing People's Republic of China
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Meliande NM, da Silveira PHPM, Monteiro SN, Nascimento LFC. Tensile Properties of Curaua–Aramid Hybrid Laminated Composites for Ballistic Helmet. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14132588. [PMID: 35808633 PMCID: PMC9268913 DOI: 10.3390/polym14132588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A typical ballistic protection helmet for ground military troops has an inside laminate polymer composite reinforced with 19 layers of the aramid, which are neither recyclable or biodegradable and are relatively expensive. The hybridization of synthetic aramid with a natural lignocellulosic fiber (NLF) can provide a lower cost and desirable sustainability to the helmet. In the present work, the curaua fiber, one of the strongest NLFs, is, for the first time, considered in non-woven mat layers to partially replace the aramid woven fabric layers. To investigate the possible advantage of this replacement, the tensile and impact properties of aramid/curaua hybrid laminated composites intended for ballistic helmets, in which up to four layers of curaua were substituted for the aramid, were evaluated. Tensile strength, toughness, and elastic modulus decreased with the replacement of the aramid while the deformation of rupture was improved for the replacement of nine aramid layers by two layers of curaua. Preliminary impact tests corroborate the decreasing tendency found in the tensile properties with the replacement of the aramid by curaua. Novel proposed Reduction Maps showed that, except for the replacement of four aramid layers by one layer of curaua, the decrease percentage of any tensile property value was lower than the corresponding volume percentage of replaced aramid, which revealed advantageous hybridization for the replacement of nine or more aramid layers.
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Costa UO, Nascimento LFC, Bezerra WBA, Neves PP, Huaman NRC, Monteiro SN, Pinheiro WA. Dynamic and Ballistic Performance of Graphene Oxide Functionalized Curaua Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Nanocomposites. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14091859. [PMID: 35567028 PMCID: PMC9105903 DOI: 10.3390/polym14091859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Graphene oxide (GO) functionalized curaua fiber (CF) has been shown to improve the mechanical properties and ballistic performance of epoxy matrix (EM) nanocomposites with 30 vol% fiber. However, the possibility of further improvement in the property and performance of nanocomposites with a greater percentage of GO functionalized CF is still a challenging endeavor. In the present work, a novel epoxy composite reinforced with 40 vol% CF coated with 0.1 wt% GO (40GOCF/EM), was subjected to Izod and ballistic impact tests as well as corresponding fractographic analysis in comparison with a GO-free composite (40CF/EM). One important achievement of this work was to determine the characteristics of the GO by means of FE-SEM and TEM. A zeta potential of −21.46 mV disclosed a relatively low stability of the applied GO, which was attributed to more multilayered structures rather than mono- or few-layer flakes. FE-SEM images revealed GO deposition, with thickness around 30 nm, onto the CF. Izod impact-absorbed energy of 813 J/m for the 40GOCF/EM was not only higher than that of 620 J/m for the 40CF/EM but also higher than other values reported for fiber composites in the literature. The GO-functionalized nanocomposite was more optimized for ballistic application against a 7.62 mm projectile, with a lower depth of penetration (24.80 mm) as compared with the 30 vol% GO-functionalized CF/epoxy nanocomposite previously reported (27.43 mm). Fractographic analysis identified five main events in the ballistic-tested 40GOCF/EM composed of multilayered armor: CF rupture, epoxy matrix rupture, CF/matrix delamination, CF fibril split, and capture of ceramic fragments by the CF. Microcracks were associated with the morphological aspects of the CF surface. A brief cost-effective analysis confirmed that 40GOCF/EM may be one of the most promising materials for personal multilayered ballistic armor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulisses Oliveira Costa
- Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (W.B.A.B.); (P.P.N.); (S.N.M.); (W.A.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-21982418125
| | - Lucio Fabio Cassiano Nascimento
- Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (W.B.A.B.); (P.P.N.); (S.N.M.); (W.A.P.)
| | - Wendell Bruno Almeida Bezerra
- Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (W.B.A.B.); (P.P.N.); (S.N.M.); (W.A.P.)
| | - Pamela Pinto Neves
- Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (W.B.A.B.); (P.P.N.); (S.N.M.); (W.A.P.)
| | - Noemi Raquel Checca Huaman
- Brazilian Center for Physics Research, CBPF, Dr. Xavier Sigaud, 150, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-180, Brazil;
| | - Sergio Neves Monteiro
- Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (W.B.A.B.); (P.P.N.); (S.N.M.); (W.A.P.)
| | - Wagner Anacleto Pinheiro
- Military Institute of Engineering—IME, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil; (L.F.C.N.); (W.B.A.B.); (P.P.N.); (S.N.M.); (W.A.P.)
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7
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Influence of Rigid Brazilian Natural Fiber Arrangements in Polymer Composites: Energy Absorption and Ballistic Efficiency. JOURNAL OF COMPOSITES SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/jcs5080201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Since the mid-2000s, several studies were carried out regarding the development of ballistic resistant materials based on polymeric matrix composites reinforced with natural lignocellulosic fibers (NLFs). The results reported so far are promising and are often comparable to commonly used materials such as KevlarTM, especially when used as an intermediate layer in a multilayer armor system (MAS). However, the most suitable configuration for these polymer composites reinforced with NLFs when subjected to high strain rates still lacks investigation. This work aimed to evaluate four possible arrangements for epoxy matrix composite reinforced with a stiff Brazilian NLF, piassava fiber, regarding energy absorption, and ballistic efficiency. Performance was evaluated against the ballistic impact of high-energy 7.62 mm ammunition. Obtained results were statistically validated by means of analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s honest test. Furthermore, the micromechanics associated with the failure of these composites were determined. Energy absorption of the same magnitude as KevlarTM and indentation depth below the limit predicted by NIJ standard were obtained for all conditions.
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Ballistic Performance of Guaruman Fiber Composites in Multilayered Armor System and as Single Target. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13081203. [PMID: 33917764 PMCID: PMC8068205 DOI: 10.3390/polym13081203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Multilayered armor systems (MAS) with a front ceramic layer backed by a relatively unknown Amazonian guaruman fiber-reinforced (Ischnosiphon koem) epoxy composites, as second layer, were for the first time ballistic tested against the threat of 7.62 mm rifle ammunition. The amount of 30 vol% guaruman fibers was investigated in three distinct configurations: (i) continuous aligned, (ii) 0-90° cross-laid, and (iii) short-cut randomly dispersed. Additionally, single-target ballistic tests were also carried out in the best MAS-performed composite with cross-laid guaruman fibers against .22 caliber ammunition. The results disclosed that all composites as MAS second layer attended the US NIJ standard with corresponding penetration depth of (i) 32.9, (ii) 27.5, and (iii) 29.6 mm smaller than the lethal limit of 44 mm in a clay witness simulating a personal body. However, the continuous aligned guaruman fiber composite lost structural integrity by delamination after the 7.62 projectile impact. By contrast, the composite with cross-laid guaruman fibers kept its integrity for subsequent shootings as recommended by the standard. The single-target tests indicated a relatively higher limit velocity for .22 caliber projectile perforation, 255 m/s, and absorbed energy of 106 J for the cross-laid guaruman fibers, which are superior to corresponding results for other less known natural fiber epoxy composites.
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Nurazzi NM, Asyraf MRM, Khalina A, Abdullah N, Aisyah HA, Rafiqah SA, Sabaruddin FA, Kamarudin SH, Norrrahim MNF, Ilyas RA, Sapuan SM. A Review on Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite for Bullet Proof and Ballistic Applications. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:646. [PMID: 33671599 PMCID: PMC7926766 DOI: 10.3390/polym13040646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Even though natural fiber reinforced polymer composites (NFRPCs) have been widely used in automotive and building industries, there is still a room to promote them to high-level structural applications such as primary structural component specifically for bullet proof and ballistic applications. The promising performance of Kevlar fabrics and aramid had widely implemented in numerous ballistic and bullet proof applications including for bullet proof helmets, vest, and other armor parts provides an acceptable range of protection to soldiers. However, disposal of used Kevlar products would affect the disruption of the ecosystem and pollutes the environment. Replacing the current Kevlar fabric and aramid in the protective equipment with natural fibers with enhanced kinetic energy absorption and dissipation has been significant effort to upgrade the ballistic performance of the composite structure with green and renewable resources. The vast availability, low cost and ease of manufacturing of natural fibers have grasped the attention of researchers around the globe in order to study them in heavy armory equipment and high durable products. The possibility in enhancement of natural fiber's mechanical properties has led the extension of research studies toward the application of NFRPCs for structural and ballistic applications. Hence, this article established a state-of-the-art review on the influence of utilizing various natural fibers as an alternative material to Kevlar fabric for armor structure system. The article also focuses on the effect of layering and sequencing of natural fiber fabric in the composites to advance the current armor structure system.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. M. Nurazzi
- Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products (INTROP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (H.A.A.); (S.A.R.); (F.A.S.); (S.M.S.)
- Centre for Defence Foundation Studies, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM), Kem Perdana Sungai Besi 57000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - M. R. M. Asyraf
- Department of Aerospace Engineering, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - A. Khalina
- Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products (INTROP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (H.A.A.); (S.A.R.); (F.A.S.); (S.M.S.)
| | - N. Abdullah
- Centre for Defence Foundation Studies, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM), Kem Perdana Sungai Besi 57000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - H. A. Aisyah
- Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products (INTROP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (H.A.A.); (S.A.R.); (F.A.S.); (S.M.S.)
| | - S. Ayu Rafiqah
- Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products (INTROP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (H.A.A.); (S.A.R.); (F.A.S.); (S.M.S.)
| | - F. A. Sabaruddin
- Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products (INTROP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (H.A.A.); (S.A.R.); (F.A.S.); (S.M.S.)
- School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - S. H. Kamarudin
- School of Industrial Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Shah Alam 40450, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - M. N. F. Norrrahim
- Research Center for Chemical Defence, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM), Kem Perdana Sungai Besi 57000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
| | - R. A. Ilyas
- School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai 81310, Johor, Malaysia;
| | - S. M. Sapuan
- Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products (INTROP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (H.A.A.); (S.A.R.); (F.A.S.); (S.M.S.)
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10
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Composites with Natural Fibers and Conventional Materials Applied in a Hard Armor: A Comparison. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:polym12091920. [PMID: 32858794 PMCID: PMC7565779 DOI: 10.3390/polym12091920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural-fiber-reinforced polymer composites have recently drawn attention as new materials for ballistic armor due to sustainability benefits and lower cost as compared to conventional synthetic fibers, such as aramid and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). In the present work, a comparison was carried out between the ballistic performance of UHMWPE composite, commercially known as Dyneema, and epoxy composite reinforced with 30 vol % natural fibers extracted from pineapple leaves (PALF) in a hard armor system. This hard armor system aims to provide additional protection to conventional level IIIA ballistic armor vests, made with Kevlar, by introducing the PALF composite plate, effectively changing the ballistic armor into level III. This level of protection allows the ballistic armor to be safely subjected to higher impact projectiles, such as 7.62 mm caliber rifle ammunition. The results indicate that a hard armor with a ceramic front followed by the PALF/epoxy composite meets the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) international standard for level III protection and performs comparably to that of the Dyneema plate, commonly used in armor vests.
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11
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Nguyen TTN, Meek G, Breeze J, Masouros SD. Gelatine Backing Affects the Performance of Single-Layer Ballistic-Resistant Materials Against Blast Fragments. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:744. [PMID: 32714916 PMCID: PMC7343711 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Penetrating trauma by energized fragments is the most common injury from explosive devices, the main threat in the contemporary battlefield. Such devices produce projectiles dependent upon their design, including preformed fragments, casings, glass, or stones; these are subsequently energized to high velocities and cause serious injuries to the body. Current body armor focuses on the essential coverage, which is mainly the thoracic and abdominal area, and can be heavy and cumbersome. In addition, there may be coverage gaps that can benefit from the additional protection provided by one or more layers of lightweight ballistic fabrics. This study assessed the performance of single layers of commercially available ballistic protective fabrics such as Kevlar®, Twaron®, and Dyneema®, in both woven and knitted configurations. Experiments were carried out using a custom-built gas-gun system, with a 0.78-g cylindrical steel fragment simulating projectile (FSP) as the impactor, and ballistic gelatine as the backing material. FSP velocity at 50% risk of material perforation, gelatine penetration, and high-risk wounding to soft tissue, as well as the depth of penetration (DoP) against impact velocity and the normalized energy absorption were used as metrics to rank the performance of the materials tested. Additional tests were performed to investigate the effect of not including a soft-tissue simulant backing material on the performance of the fabrics. The results show that a thin layer of ballistic material may offer meaningful protection against the penetration of this FSP. Additionally, it is essential to ensure a biofidelic boundary condition as the protective efficacy of fabrics was markedly altered by a gelatine backing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy-Tien N Nguyen
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - George Meek
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John Breeze
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Spyros D Masouros
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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12
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Effect of Graphene Oxide Coating on Natural Fiber Composite for Multilayered Ballistic Armor. Polymers (Basel) 2019; 11:polym11081356. [PMID: 31426305 PMCID: PMC6722993 DOI: 10.3390/polym11081356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Composites with sustainable natural fibers are currently experiencing remarkably diversified applications, including in engineering industries, owing to their lower cost and density as well as ease in processing. Among the natural fibers, the fiber extracted from the leaves of the Amazonian curaua plant (Ananas erectifolius) is a promising strong candidate to replace synthetic fibers, such as aramid (Kevlar™), in multilayered armor system (MAS) intended for ballistic protection against level III high velocity ammunition. Another remarkable material, the graphene oxide is attracting considerable attention for its properties, especially as coating to improve the interfacial adhesion in polymer composites. Thus, the present work investigates the performance of graphene oxide coated curaua fiber (GOCF) reinforced epoxy composite, as a front ceramic MAS second layer in ballistic test against level III 7.62 mm ammunition. Not only GOCF composite with 30 vol% fibers attended the standard ballistic requirement with 27.4 ± 0.3 mm of indentation comparable performance to Kevlar™ 24 ± 7 mm with same thickness, but also remained intact, which was not the case of non-coated curaua fiber similar composite. Mechanisms of ceramic fragments capture, curaua fibrils separation, curaua fiber pullout, composite delamination, curaua fiber braking, and epoxy matrix rupture were for the first time discussed as a favorable combination in a MAS second layer to effectively dissipate the projectile impact energy.
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Neves Monteiro S, Salgado de Assis F, Ferreira CL, Tonini Simonassi N, Pondé Weber R, Souza Oliveira M, Colorado HA, Camposo Pereira A. Fique Fabric: A Promising Reinforcement for Polymer Composites. Polymers (Basel) 2018; 10:polym10030246. [PMID: 30966281 PMCID: PMC6415137 DOI: 10.3390/polym10030246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A relatively unknown natural fiber extracted from the leaves of the fique plant, native of the South American Andes, has recently shown potential as reinforcement of polymer composites for engineering applications. Preliminary investigations indicated a promising substitute for synthetic fibers, competing with other well-known natural fibers. The fabric made from fique fibers have not yet been investigated as possible composite reinforcement. Therefore, in the present work a more thorough characterization of fique fabric as a reinforcement of composites with a polyester matrix was performed. Thermal mechanical properties of fique fabric composites were determined by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The ballistic performance of plain woven fique fabric-reinforced polyester matrix composites was investigated as a second layer in a multilayered armor system (MAS). The results revealed a sensible improvement in thermal dynamic mechanical behavior. Both viscoelastic stiffness and glass transition temperature were increased with the amount of incorporated fique fabric. In terms of ballistic results, the fique fabric composites present a performance similar to that of the much stronger KevlarTM as an MAS second layer with the same thickness. A cost analysis indicated that armor vests with fique fabric composites as an MAS second layer would be 13 times less expensive than a similar creation made with Kevlar™.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Neves Monteiro
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering, IME, Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil.
| | - Foluke Salgado de Assis
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering, IME, Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil.
| | - Carlos Luiz Ferreira
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering, IME, Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil.
| | - Noan Tonini Simonassi
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering, IME, Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo Pondé Weber
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering, IME, Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil.
| | - Michelle Souza Oliveira
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering, IME, Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil.
| | - Henry A Colorado
- CCComposites Laboratory, Universidad de Antioquia, UDeA, Calle 70, No. 52-21, Medellin 050010, Colombia.
| | - Artur Camposo Pereira
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering, IME, Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, Brazil.
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Monteiro SN, Pereira AC, Ferreira CL, Pereira Júnior É, Weber RP, Assis FSD. Performance of Plain Woven Jute Fabric-Reinforced Polyester Matrix Composite in Multilayered Ballistic System. Polymers (Basel) 2018; 10:polym10030230. [PMID: 30966265 PMCID: PMC6415402 DOI: 10.3390/polym10030230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The ballistic performance of plain woven jute fabric-reinforced polyester matrix composites was investigated as the second layer in a multilayered armor system (MAS). Volume fractions of jute fabric, up to 30 vol %, were mixed with orthophthalic polyester to fabricate laminate composites. Ballistic tests were conducted using high velocity 7.62 mm ammunition. The depth of penetration caused by the bullet in a block of clay witness, simulating a human body, was used to evaluate the MAS ballistic performance according to the international standard. The fractured materials after tests were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicated that jute fabric composites present a performance similar to that of the much stronger Kevlar™, which is an aramid fabric laminate, as MAS second layer with the same thickness. The mechanism of this similar ballistic behavior as well as the comparative advantages of the jute fabric composites over the Kevlar™ are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Neves Monteiro
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, 22290-270 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Artur Camposo Pereira
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, 22290-270 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Carlos Luiz Ferreira
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, 22290-270 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Édio Pereira Júnior
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, 22290-270 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo Pondé Weber
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, 22290-270 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Foluke Salgado de Assis
- Materials Science Program, Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Praça General Tibúrcio 80, Urca, 22290-270 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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