Backplane response of ballistically impacted composites

The ballistic impact response of woven composite helmet materials was analysed both experimentally and numerically. Ballistic impact tests were performed on flat panels, using different projectiles with a range of impact velocities. The penetration and backplane response of the composite panels were measured. A numerical model incorporating post-failure response was implemented in the LS-DYNA explicit dynamic finite element code to predict the penetration and backplane response of the composite material under ballistic impact. Close agreement was found between the simulated backplane displacement and the data obtained from the ballistic experiments. A linear relationship was observed between the maximum backplane displacement and the impact energy, at least within the range of impact energies considered. The model presented this study will be used to assess the degree of improvement in performance of current ballistic protection offered by design changes and the adoption of new materials