Durability study of polymeric ballistic panels used in riverine combat boats under humidity-aged and impact fatigue conditions

Abstract

Low Draft River Combat Boats are equipped with a set of armored panels on the deck and attached to the sides to protect the crew. These shields are composed of laminated panels made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers with a polyurethane resin matrix. The use of these panels results in a weight reduction of approximately 50% compared to traditional armor. However, the polymeric nature of these panels makes them susceptible to degradation of their mechanical properties over time under operational environmental conditions.This study evaluates the effect of moisture and temperature on the durability and crack propagation behavior of these ballistic panels under impact fatigue conditions through experimental procedures