The influence of deformation waves on impact energy absorption and heat release in multi-layer woven fabric ballistic body armor

The mechanical and thermo-mechanical damage mechanisms of a multi-layer woven polymeric fabric ballistic body armor are analyzed. A proposed two-stage model takes into account the wave interaction between an impacting element and an armor package at the initial stage of the collision. The model allows the prediction of initial fabric compaction and the estimation of velocities and displacements. These can then be used to predict the response of a layered flexible barrier and the contribution of stresses and frictional forces in causing permanent deformation.