Characteristics of Reinforced Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene During Its Ballistic Penetration

Bulk samples of pure ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and bulk samples reinforced with metal interlayers (steel meshes and penetrated titanium plates) are obtained by cyclic impact compaction. Experiments are carried out in which the properties of compacts made of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene with and without metal interlayers are studied during penetration by a lead shot whose pellets (8 mm in diameter) move at a velocity of approximately 370 m/s. The penetration depth of a pellet into a compact is experimentally determined. To estimate the penetration depth of a spherical body into a polymer, a model is proposed that describes the motion of a sphere in this medium.