Polymer-Modified Ceramics for Composite Airframe with Improved Ballistic Resistance

A new type of ceramic-thermoplastic material is proposed for fabricating composite armor. The proposed research explores the feasibility of modifying sukucate-based ceramics with thermoplastic toughening agents to produce a new class of composite matrix resins. The novel gradient morphologies predicted for these hybrid systems will be used to improve matrix-reinforcement compatibility and overall composite ballistic resistance. The outer layers of the matrix resin will exhibit the hardness of inorganic glass while the inner layers will provide compliance to maximize shock wave propagation throughout the reinforcing fabric plies. The proposed matrix resin system can potentially be used in resin transfer molding (RTM). State-of-the-art polyaramide textile reinforcements will be used with these matrix resins to fabricate high-impact resistant composites. The ultimate objective is to develop an easily processed composite with high strength and hardness, low density, and the impact resistance required to survive a variety of ballistic threats. In the proposed study, the methodology for preparing these novel ceramic hybrids will be developed an structure-property profiles determined. The resulting material property relationships will be used in the design and fabrication of new composite-based airframes with high survivability.