Development of Lightweight Bulletproof Vest Inserts with Increased Protection Capability

Abstract

The paper presents a problem of protection against modern pistol ammunition with increased armour-piercing capabilities. Traditional bulletproof vests made of polyethylene or aramid fiber-based fabrics give acceptable protection against lead-core pistol ammunition and fragments but they are insufficient for AP steel core penetration. In such case, the use of ceramic materials is essential. The article presents results of ballistic tests of composite material sets involving silicon carbide (SiC) and boron carbide (B₄C) ceramics against 5.7 × 28 and 4.6 × 30 mm projectiles. Primary aspects of concealed bulletproof vest construction are also described