Investigation of the ballistic impact performance of B ₄ C-added para-aramid/epoxy composites

In this study, the ballistic performance of para-aramid/epoxy composite plates with various numbers of layers was experimentally investigated. For this reason, para-aramid/epoxy composite plates with 11, 20, and 30 layers were produced. These composite plates were subjected to ballistics tests. Then, 30-layers nanocomposite plates were produced unadded and by adding 0.125%, 0.25%, and 0.5% Boron Carbide (B 4 C) by weight to the epoxy in the composite plate. Specimens measuring 300 mm × 300 mm were prepared from each plate and subjected to ballistics tests. Ballistics tests were carried out according to the NIJ 0101.04 standard at IIIA armor type level and using a 9 mm FMJ RN bullet. As a result of test, 11- and 20-layer para-aramid/epoxy plates were perforated. The 30-layer para-aramid/epoxy plates without added and B 4 C-added were not perforated. In addition, the penetration depth values on all four plates were below the value specified in the standard. It was determined that the penetration depth value improved as the B 4 C-added increased. It believe that these findings will help with the structural design and performance evaluation of para-aramid/epoxy armor with B 4 C added, as well as serve as a resource for researchers.