Exploring Damage and Penetration in Soft Armors Under Ballistic Impact Through a Novel and Efficient 3D Peridynamic Model

ABSTRACT This study focuses on improving soft body armor design for military and law enforcement personnel by developing a robust numerical model to simulate its response to projectile impacts. We introduce a novel and efficient 3D peridynamic model to simulate penetration and deformation in soft body armor fibers. The 3D peridynamic model overcomes the deficiency of using mesh‐based methods to simulate the excessive deformation of soft armor fibers. We confirm the validity and efficiency of the 3D peridynamic model by comparing its predictions with experimental and numerical results. After validation, the model assesses armor performance under various conditions, including bullet types and velocities. Results show that Kevlar armor with a 0.4‐mm thickness can stop bullets with impact velocities below 200 m/s but is ineffective against higher‐velocity bullets. The 3D peridynamic model can be utilized in armor optimization for military and law enforcement agencies regarding armor selection based on threat levels.