Experimental and numerical investigation of ballistic behavior of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (uhmwpe) fabric-based composite armor

Armor systems constitute an essential component in safeguarding the well-being of both military and civilian individuals, serving as foundational elements of contemporary defense technologies. The limitations inherent in traditional armor materials, particularly when confronted with the progression of ammunition technologies and elevated impact energies, necessitate the advancement of multi-layered and high-performance composite armor systems. In this dissertation, composite armor targets were meticulously designed utilizing materials exhibiting diverse mechanical properties, including Ti6Al4V titanium alloy, Line-x XS-100 polyurea coating, aluminum honeycomb, and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (uhmwpe) fabric. Various configurations of target armors, constructed with distinct placement sequences, were systematically modeled within a numerical framework to assess their ballistic protection efficacy. All analytical procedures were conducted utilizing the Ansys Workbench software package. Within the context of the numerical modeling, the materials were represented in an arbitrary sequence. Consequently, the compliance of each combination with the NIJ 0101.06 ballistic protection standard was thoroughly examined. Based on the simulation data procured, ten distinct configurations of ballistic armor were formulated for implementation in experimental evaluations. Three different types of ammunition, specifically 7.62x51 mm FMJ M80, 7.62x51 mm AP (armor-piercing), and 5.56x45 mm SS109, were employed in the experimental assessments. It was noted that the test outcomes exhibited a considerable degree of congruence with the numerical analyses. Notably, a significant correlation was identified concerning rear surface deformation, damage morphology, and energy absorption capabilities.