Optically Clear Ballistic Resistant Polymer Nanocomposites

There is a need for a lightweight device with low areal density (<3.0 lbs/ft2) that works in concert with existing military helmets to provide total head and face protection rated to NIJ Armor Type IIIA. To address this critical military challenge Luna Innovations is developing an innovative, optically clear polyurethane nanocomposite visor to provide the warfighter with full NIJ Type IIIA protection for the entire head and face with a minimum of added weight. Through our Phase I development efforts, Luna has demonstrated the feasibility of casting an optically clear part and creating a top layer with much higher hardness than the underlying bulk material. Using an internally developed ballistic simulation experiment, Luna’s modified polyurethane outperformed the control polycarbonate in terms of bullet deformation. In addition to impact testing, Luna’s ballistic polyurethane is superior to polycarbonate in chemical resistivity. In a 24 hour exposure test according to MIL-PRF-44366B, polycarbonate passed on motor oil and transmission fluid but failed on jet fuel and insect repellant. Luna’s polyurethane passed on all four chemicals. Both commercial and military markets will greatly benefit from Luna’s innovative approach to ballistic materials.