Dynamic bi-axial testing of woven composites

Thick panel glass/polymer composites are being considered as a structural component in ballistic armor. A new experimental technique has been developed to perform dynamic bi-axial testing on laminate composites. In-plane ultimate compressive strength of the composite is compared for various combinations of bi-axial stress and strain rate. Evolution of the damage in the composite and subsequent kink-band formation is studied by the use of high-speed photography and electron microscopy.