X-ray Computed Tomography for the Development of Ballistic Composite

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Composite Materials

Background:

• Polymer-matrix composites (PMCs) are increasingly used in protective applications.
• Understanding the ballistic impact behavior of PMCs is crucial for developing effective armor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the ballistic performance of PMC panels made from PEHD and PP reinforced with aramid fabric.
• To compare experimental results with numerical simulations for impact behavior assessment.

Main Methods:

• Ballistic testing with 0.38 Special and 9x19 Parabellum projectiles.
• X-ray computed tomography (XCT) for multi-scale geometry reconstruction and damage assessment.
• Finite element analysis (FEA) using representative volume element (RVE) models for simulation.

Main Results:

• XCT provided detailed analysis of internal composite geometry and damage.
• FEA simulations, based on RVE models, effectively predicted projectile penetration.
• Macroscale XCT quantified delamination and deformation caused by ballistic impact.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully correlated experimental ballistic test results with FEA simulations.
• Multi-scale XCT analysis is effective for evaluating the structural integrity and impact response of PMC ballistic panels.
• The developed RVE models are suitable for simulating projectile-composite interactions.