Mechanics of Composite Materials

EML4230                                                                                                     EML6232

Liquid Body Armor or ARL: Shear Thickening Fluid
 

Page Numbers of Book: Pages 24– 26 Aramid Fibers
 

Last Accessed: 3 October 2012
 

Summary: This video discusses how fiber weaves of Kelvar can be suspended in a matrix of shear thickening fluid to increase it's protective capabilities by a significant degree. When the composite material is struck by a bullet or even a sharp point from a stabbing weapon, the Kevlar fibers begin to yield and separate for the object; much more so for the sharp point. This shearing stress causes the shear thickening fluid to resist the shearing motion. The stronger the shear the more resistance there is to oppose it. This reaction happens instantaneously, stopping a knife almost completely. 
 

Summary Author: Michael Bornick