Investigation of penetration mechanics of PW Kevlar fiber reinforced HDPE composites

In this article, a study on the quasi-static penetration resistance behavior of plain weave Kevlar/high density polyethylene composite with varying thicknesses, i.e. H-C=3.1-9.4mm, is presented using the quasi-static punch shear test methodology for the experiments. The penetration resistance is usually shown by a load-displacement graph, integral of which is the energy dissipated by the composite during penetration. The penetration energy varies with the diameter of the support span which can be equal or higher than the punch diameter. During tests, a flat punch of diameter 7.6mm with a range of support spans 8.89 to 50.8mm has been used and quasi-static punch shear test experiments are carried out for varying support span to punch diameter ratios (i.e. SPR=1.16, 1.33, 1.67, 2.00, 2.33, 2.67, etc.). Their damage mechanisms for different support span to punch diameter ratios and thickness are documented. Stiffness, peak force, deflection, damage area and energy dissipation results are presented in detailed form.