Pull-Out Properties of Nano-Processed Para-Aramid Fabric Materials in Soft Ballistic: An Experimental Analysis

Single and multiple pull-out properties of a nano-processed para-aramid fabric structure were investigated. The nano pull-out behavior exhibited three distinct regions, namely crimp extension, interlacement rupture, and stick-slip. Multiple yarn pull-out tests demonstrated a significantly higher pull-out force compared to single-yarn pull-out, primarily attributed to the incorporation of nanoparticles. Furthermore, it was observed that an increase in fabric length resulted in an approximately linear increase in both yarn crimp extension and pull-out force. The highest pull-out force was obtained in the nano-hexagonal boron carbide (nh-B4C, 0.3%) para-aramid structure, followed by multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT, 0.3%) para-aramids. This is because of the enhancement of filament-to-filament friction, especially in the interlacement zone of fabric, alongside the cumulative frictional interactions among the nanoparticles. Additionally, the findings highlight an improvement in crimp extension energy absorption facilitated by nanoparticle incorporation in soft fabric. Notably, the improvement in the energy absorption capacity of yarns within the fabric, without disintegration, is considered significant at this stage. These results indicate a promising potential for performance enhancement in prospective soft ballistic applications.