The main objective of this work is to develop and commercialize light-weight transparent composites with high tensile strength, toughness and impact resistance. Novel techniques will be developed for the design and manufacturing of these lightweight composite materials with improved blast resistance, energy absorbing capability and thermal properties. HABSonic LLC in collaboration with Missouri S & T will perform research on advanced materials for transparent composites. The optical transparency is achieved by modifying the refractive index of the resin matrix to match with the refractive index of the glass fiber. Different variables affecting the transparency during the resin processing and manufacturing will be optimized to produce transparent composites. Continuous fiber reinforced transparent composite panels of various orientations and thicknesses will be manufactured and evaluated to meet specific threat levels. The performance of the transparent composites will be studied by laboratory tests. The experimental results will also be validated with the finite element simulations. Optically transparent composites will find immediate application in military tactical vehicles. This program will meet the Navys need to develop superior transparent armor systems for force protection.
Benefit: Successful completion of this project will lead to lighter and stronger transparent composites that can be used for applications such as windows for armored vehicles, face shields, riot and EOD visors. Also, these high strength transparent composite panels will find potential applications as backing plates for transparent armor systems and blast resistant windows for buildings. The new generation multipurpose composites are expected to perform successfully in various types of operating environments.
Keywords: Fiber-Reinforced Composite, Fiber-Reinforced Composite, refractive index, Transparent armor, ., light-weight, composite manufacturing, finite element analysis and modeling, Resin, glass fiber
