Improved Body Armor

High Performance Materials Group (HPMG) proposes to develop and demonstrate an innovative and affordable lightweight body armor material consisting of a low density ceramic phase, a low density metal phase, and reinforcing wires or fibers of compatiblecomposition, preferably metal. Based on HPMG's extensive material development background, we anticipate the distribution and orientation of these phases to yield a material that can satisfy the strength, stiffness, and toughness requirements of personnelarmor and of many structural applications. The envisioned material should exhibit at least the stopping power of hot pressed boron carbide as well as have a capability to stop multiple projectiles, thereby providing improved protection for the wearer. ThisPhase I effort will focus on improving performance through the incorporation of compatible metallic wires or low cost fibers in order to minimize the armor cost. As a result of the focus on high performance at affordable cost, we anticipate rapid andsuccessful commercialization of the proposed body armor. The proposed lightweight body armor material will have the superior stopping power of hot pressed boron carbide while exhibiting multi-hit capability. This will substantially increase survivabilityagainst multiple hits, compared to existing ceramic armor inserts. The proposed technology is aimed at reducing the materials and manufacturing costs far below the existing benchmark of lightweight boron carbide ceramic inserts for body armor. Onceproven for military use, the same or similar concept armor would immediately extend to law enforcement, first responders, and other government security personnel. The proven technology would also be applicable and easily extended to protection of mobileand fixed platforms and structures such as ground and air vehicles, munitions containers, hazardous material containers, and shelters of many shapes and functions.