Experimental and numerical investigation of hybrid armor against a ballistic impact

Purpose The main challenge in preparing body armor is achieving a high protection level by using lightweight materials with minimum cost. Design/methodology/approach In this study, a three-hybrid multilayered armor system is prepared for protection against a ballistic impact wave. These armor systems consist of glass or ceramic tile as a front layer followed by three intermediate layers made of woven fiber reinforced polymer composites and a back layer made of either aluminum or polypropylene. Findings All armor systems were successful in impeding the projectile from perforating, that is materials selection played an important role in stopping the ballistic impact wave. Almost an identical ballistic behavior was recorded between the experimental and numerical simulation by using ANSYS AUTODYN which means that the simulation could be used in advance to reduce the time required for practical experiments and the cost of using materials in experimental tests will be lessened. The effect of projectile geometry also had been studied, and it showed a noticeable role in changing ballistic behavior. Originality/value The originality of this research is in using carbon and glass fiber which are woven together in addition to adding polypropylene layers in armor preparation.