Energy absorption analysis of aramid composite during blunt projectile impact

In this work, a numerical model for aramid composites is experimentally validated in terms of permanent deformation, energy absorption and damage mechanisms for ballistic applications. Novel experimental and numerical results of non-perforating ballistic impacts with blunt projectiles are presented. The resistance forces and absorption energy by the specimen are measured for different impact velocities. A postmortem analysis of the failure mechanisms is performed using computed tomography and a profilometer device. The numerical model is used to analyze the influence of impactor mass and impact velocity below the ballistic limit.