Chain composites under ballistic impact conditions

An existing family of composites of steel chains in resin matrices that exhibit delocalized failure and high levels of energy absorption under static tensile loading has been tested under high-velocity impact conditions. Panels of chain composites were shot with anti-personnel rounds in an instrumented test range. The tests demonstrate that the lockup mechanism operates at strain rates approaching 104 s−1, with delocalized damage extending in several cases from the impact site to the edge of the test panel. Estimates of the energy absorbed per unit volume under impact conditions range from 30 to 75 MJ/m2, approximately 50–60% higher than values measured in static tension for the same composites. The enhancement of energy absorption is tentatively attributed to strengthening of the resin at high strain rates. Implications of the tests for designing ballistic protection are discussed.