Effect of Bubble and Void Defects on Properties of Structural Armor Composites

Abstract

The effect of bubbles and void defects on the properties of structural armor composite was investigated, and the properties of the composites repaired following the secondary infusion scheme were characterized. The results showed that bubbles could significantly decrease the mechanical properties of composites, the tensile strength and bending strength of the composites with bubbles were decreased by about 11% and 5% respectively, and the bending modulus of elasticity was 9% less. The ballistic performance of the composites with void defects was decreased. For V50, it was decreased by about 6%, and the specific energy absorption was reduced by about 9%. The void defect has little effect on the static mechanical properties of the composites, but will significantly reduce the anti-aging ability of the composites in hygrothermal environment. The mechanical properties and ballistic performance of the composites do not decrease significantly after the secondary infusion in the dry spot area.