Review on the mechanical deterioration mechanism of aramid fabric under harsh environmental conditions

Aramid fabrics have been widely used in ballistic protection fields such as body armour and protective construction due to their excellent mechanical properties, low density, and flexibility. The widespread use of aramid fabric results in its inevitable exposure to harsh environmental factors, such as ultraviolet radiation (UV), high and low temperatures, acids, alkalis, and humidity, which can significantly affect the mechanical and ballistic properties of the fabrics, limiting their application life. This review highlights the macroproperty changes and microdeterioration mechanisms of aramid fabrics in harsh environments. Ultraviolet radiation has the greatest effect on the mechanical and thermal properties of aramid fibres, followed by high- and low-temperature, acidic, alkaline, and moist environments. The mechanical deterioration mechanism of aramid fabric is attributed to changes in the molecular weight, amide bond integrity, molecular orientation, water content, chemical bond energy and aramid fibre surface roughness. In this study, the metallic oxide and organic fibre modification methods for improving environmental adaptability are described in detail for the most harmful ultraviolet radiation. This work provides a convenient reference for the comprehensive performance evaluation and modification optimization of aramid fabrics and proposes design methods and a maintenance guidance for the application of aramid fabric products in harsh environments.