Comparative study of ballistic performance of high strength polyethylene fiber composite and Kevlar composite

This research compares ballistic performance, at the same areal density or the same areal thickness, of 'Kevlar' composite to that of high strength polyethylene fiber composite developed from local materials. Hard armor plates with one square foot area, comprising 4 mm top ceramic layer and the polymer composite back plate, were prepared. According to NIJ standards, ballistic tests were conducted for protection levels 2A, 2, and 3A. Trauma depth and diameter left on witness clay were measured and compared. The result showed that on weight or areal density basis, the composite made of high strength polyethylene fiber performed better than the composite made of 'Kevlar' fiber. On the other hand, one thickness basis, 'Kevlar' composite performed slightly better than the composite made of polyethylene fiber when trauma depth is considered. However, considering the trauma diameter, high strength polyethylene fiber composite exhibited smaller diameter for both areal density and thickness comparison. This indicates that low cost high strength polyethylene fiber produced locally can be used in hard armor.