Cut/puncture resistance and mechanisms of protective composite textiles reinforced with inorganic powder

Abstract

This study presents a soft-rigid unified structure (SRUS) textile composed of an inorganic powder (IP) reinforced epoxy resin block (EIPB) array and a soft textile substrate via a pattern-controllable integrated molding method. The influence of IP content and alumina particle size on the cut and puncture resistance of the resulting SRUS textile was systematically investigated. Furthermore, the anti-puncture and anti-cutting mechanisms of the SRUS textile were comprehensively evaluated based on the analysis of damage morphology and process. The experimental results demonstrated a significant enhancement in the puncture and cut resistance of the SRUS textile upon the incorporation of IP. Moreover, the cut/puncture resistance of the SRUS textile increased with an increase in IP content and the size of Al2O3, and the optimal cut/puncture resistance was observed at 60 mesh-50 wt.%. Additionally, the anti-puncture mechanism of the SRUS textile was attributed to the presence of hard passivation at the EIPB, as well as friction self-locking at the gaps. The anti-cutting mechanism was ascribed to the reverse cutting action exerted by the hard particles on the blade, preventing further penetration. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms that contribute to its enhanced protective performance.

Keywords

• Thermosetting resin
• Particle-reinforcement
• Multifunctional composites textiles
• Cut/puncture resistance
• Damage mechanics