Ballistic Response of Fabrics: Model and Experiments

Walker [1] developed an analytical model for the dynamic response of fabrics to ballistic impact. In the model the force on the bullet is a function of fabric displacement (h) along the axis of impact and the radius (R) of the fabric deformation or ‘bulge”. Ballistic tests against Zylon™ fabric have been performed to measure h and R as a function of time. The results of these experiments are presented and analyzed in the context of the Walker model.