Effect of hybrid strategies on the ballistic response of aramid/ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene woven fabrics

The increasing demand for advanced personal protection systems has motivated a considerable interest in hybrid woven fabrics and textile composites. However, the effectiveness of the combination method of fibers on ballistic performance remains uncertain, leaving the selection of an appropriate hybridization strategy unresolved. This study conducted a thorough comparison of the ballistic responses of hybrid aramid/ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) woven fabrics, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the hybridization effects. Specimens with inter-layer, intra-layer, and intra-yarn hybrid configurations were manufactured, and ballistic impact tests were performed via a light-gas gun. The residual velocity, energy absorption, dynamic penetration process, and perforation modes of the hybrid specimens were recorded at two selected impact velocities and then compared with those of non-hybrid specimens. The results demonstrated that the enhancement effect of hybridization varied with hybrid configuration and impact velocity. The interlacing of aramid yarns and UHMWPE yarns in intra-layer hybrid specimens did not promote the breakage of UHMWPE fibers, which was responsible for the inferior ballistic performance. In contrast, inter-layer hybridization and intra-yarn hybridization could overcome the insufficient friction of UHMWPE and the low mechanical properties of aramid, resulting in superior ballistic performance.