Advanced Sealant for Next-Generation Transparent Armor Service Life

The U.S. Marine Corps are organized and equipped as a "force in readiness” and their ability to operate with agility and efficiency often depends on armored tactical vehicles. One portion of this readiness is the ability of the transparent armor (TA) in these vehicles to operate effectively. TA is a laminate system of integrated, optically clear materials that provides ballistic protection while maintaining mechanical integrity and visible transparency. Existing TA designs are experiencing early-life delamination, creating a significant cost for the Marine Corps. These failures impede the Warfighters’ ability to visualize threats and the environment, and reduce both vehicle and mission readiness. New sealant chemistries needed to reduce delamination and extend TA service life. In Phase I, Luna developed a new potting sealant that provides a consistent and stable bond between TA and the metallic frames they are inserted into for vehicle mounting. The sealant was more environmentally stable and chemically compatible with existing interlayer adhesives common to TA. The result was greater long-term laminate bond strength compared to existing sealant technologies. In Phase II, Luna will optimize the sealant for extended service life and utilize a combination of embedded strain sensing and accelerated testing to demonstrate improved service life.