Feasibility of Low Cost Fabrication of Lightweight, Protective Structures Using Thermoplastic Matrix Composites

Abstract

The report describes the continuing investigation into processing and testing of thermoplastic composite structures for ballistic production. A review of the progress so far details the process being used and the development of baseline molding conditions. Some testing has also been carried out including burn-off, microscopy and impact tests; results are mentioned where appropriate. Some unforeseen problems delayed the planned molding program, but a temperature-time processing window for each thermoplastic will soon be established. Production of test panels can then begin along with suitable mechanical and impact testing.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 2001
Accession Number
ADA389449

Entities

People

  • A. M. Manwaring
  • C. D. Rudd
  • Rebekah Brooks

Organizations

  • University of Nottingham

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Composite Materials
  • Fabrication
  • Fibers
  • Films
  • High Temperature
  • Isothermal Processes
  • Lightweight
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Material Forming Processes
  • Materials
  • Materials Processing
  • Materials Science
  • Microscopy
  • Moldings
  • Production
  • Thermoplastic Composites

Fields of Study

  • Materials science

Readers

  • Reinforced Composite Materials
  • Software Engineering