Back Face Deformation (BFD) Response Comparison between Km2 and Hb80 Flat Panels

Abstract

A series of back face deformation (BFD) tests were conducted to characterize the ballistic response for both Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) and Kevlar flat panels impacted by steel spheres. Digital image correlation (DIC) was used to measure the dynamic back face deformation. Post-experiment computed tomography (CT) scans were conducted to characterize the failure of the composite panels. Similar BFD profiles and failure modes were observed for both UHMWPE and Kevlar panels. Numerical models were developed in LS-DYNA to study the ballistic response in both UHMWPE and Kevlar panels. Tied-contact with failure option was used between adjacent composite layers to simulate delamination failure. The time histories of BFD, delamination failure and depth of penetration are compared with the experimental data.