Experimental studies on changes in mechanical properties of polymer composites under impact of thermal load determined based on compression testing

The objective of the study was to carry out an analysis of changes in mechanical properties of polymer composites in conditions of thermal load. Such an analysis may allow an initial verification of possibilities of deploying new composites in production of fire helmet shells. The reference material chosen for testing was the Ultramid composite, which is currently used for the production of fire helmet shells. In addition three different materials were selected that contained reinforcement by glass fibres bearing the trade name of Tarnamid, which are not used in manufacturing of shells. Testing was conducted in conditions of quasi-static load, during which compressive tests were performed. Mechanical loads were applied at different levels of thermal exposure, which was to simulate presence in fire conditions. Results of tests indicated that the Tarnamid composites are characterised by better compressive strength and rigidity determined on the basis of the Young module value than Ultramid PA66 GF25 used in the production of head protective shells. It has also been proven that thermal loads contribute to significant degradation in strength and rigidity of tested materials, which affects adversely protective properties of the helmet.