Study on the stab resistance mechanism and performance of the carbon, glass and aramid fiber reinforced polymer and hybrid composites

In this study, stiff stab-resistant materials for riot shields were developed by using fiber reinforced polymer composites (FRPs) made of three different types of fibers: carbon, glass and p-aramid. The stab resistance of the FRPs were investigated with respect to the thickness and types of reinforced fibers according to the U.S.A. National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standard. Hybrid composites were then developed to compensate for the weaknesses of each FRP, and the stacking sequences were optimized. The mechanisms of the stab resistance and the blade penetration for each FRP were investigated via static stab compressive tests. Additionally, the failure mode and fracture topography after the stab resistance tests were obtained using a micro-CT scanner.