DEVELOPMENT AND ANALYSIS OF CURAUA FIBER POLYMER COMPOSITES FOR APPLICATION IN BALLISTIC VESTS

Abstract

Violence associated with political, religious, and financial movements, fueled by extremist armed groups, is a global reality. In Brazil, urban violence is often linked to efforts to reduce crime, necessitating more effective shielding systems for personal and vehicular protection. This study focuses on investigating the mechanical and ballistic properties of composites reinforced with natural lignocellulosic fibers for body armor applications. Curauá fibers were used to produce polymeric composites with different volumetric fractions: 0%, 0.50%, 1.00%, and 1.25%. The mechanical characterization of the composites aimed to evaluate their properties and ballistic efficiency by measuring residual velocity and energy absorbed after impact by .22 caliber ammunition. The results provide a critical analysis of the protection offered by these materials, contributing to the development of innovative and effective armor against ballistic threats.