Towards a better, science-based, evaluation of kinetic non-lethal weapons

Abstract

A review of relevant existing experimental methods to evaluate so-called kinetic non-lethal weapons is presented. Next performance tests of two existing non-lethal weapon systems are shown and compared with other projectiles. Tissue simulants and an accurate determination of their physical properties are important to improve evaluation methods of non-lethal projectiles. Knowledge of physical properties is necessary to allow the physical modelling of the human body and interaction with projectiles. Presumably, for this purpose plasticine (clay), soap and gelatine are relevant tissue simulants. The present status of knowledge in this field is discussed. In addition, expectations and possibilities for the future are discussed.