Investigation on ballistic performance of layered composite plates

Composite materials are used in many engineering applications, such as defense, automotive, space, etc., due to their many advantageous properties. It is common to obtain hybrid composites by using different fabric types in the production of composite materials and their application fields. In areas where composite and hybrid composite materials, which have emerged as an alternative to traditional materials, are insufficient, nanocomposites are used for better mechanical properties and better performance. Clay, boron compounds, graphene, etc. are used as nanoparticles for nanocomposite production. The use of composites in the ballistic field and the results of studies in this field constitute an important area. This field is especially security, military equipment, protective clothing and armor. This study includes experimental studies on the use of layered composites in the ballistics field. In the study, layered composite plates produced using Para-Aramid (100% Kevlar) fabric were examined in three stages. In the first stage, hybrid composite plates were produced using 11 layers of Kevlar/Epoxy composite plates and glass fiber-reinforced fabrics in different layers. These hybrid plates were obtained in 3Kevlar/1Glass/3Kevlar/1Glass/3Kevlar and 4Kevlar/3Glass/4Kevlar arrangements. In the second stage, a 20-layer composite plate of Kevlar/Epoxy was produced. In the third stage, 30-layer Kevlar/Epoxy composite plates were produced as undoped nanoparticles. Boron carbide was used as a nanocontaining material. Nanoparticulated composite plates were produced by using boron carbide at 0.5%, 0.25%, and 0.125% by weight. Layered composite plates produced in all three stages were subjected to ballistic testing according to NIJ 0101.04 standards. In the test results, 11-layer Kevlar/Epoxy and hybrid composite plates were penetrated at armor type IIIA and II levels. Only the Kevlar/Epoxy plate was not perforated at armor type IIA level. The 20-layer Kevlar/Epoxy composite plate was perforated at armor type IIIA level as a result of the test. 30-layer Kevlar/Epoxy and boron carbide doped Kevlar/Epoxy sheets were not perforated as a result of the armor type IIIA level test. The results were successful because the penetration depths obtained from these plates were below the standard value of 44 mm.