Enhanced ballistic resistance of multilayered cross-ply UHMWPE laminated plates

Multilayered cross-ply ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) laminated plates were envisioned and their ballistic performance explored, both experimentally and numerically. High velocity impacts were performed on both monolithic and multilayered targets with identical areal density. Ballistic data were obtained, together with dynamic deformation features and failure modes for both target types. Full three-dimensional finite element (FE) simulations were carried out to calculate the dynamic response of each target and explore the underlying mechanisms. Good agreement was achieved between FE simulations and experimental measurements. The results revealed that multi-layering the target could relieve fiber tensile stresses on its rear face and generate a more significant pull-in effect at the edges, resulting in larger back-face deflection and enhanced ballistic resistance.