Ballistic impact behavior of shear thickening fluid impregnated sisal fabrics

Abstract

The study explores the ballistic impact performance of shear thickening fluid (STF) impregnated sisal fabric panels with varying nano silica loadings (10 wt%, 20 wt%, and 30 wt%). Rheological analysis indicated improved shear thickening behavior with increased nano-silica. FESEM, XRD, and FTIR analyses were conducted to assess changes in morphology, phase structure, and functional groups. The yarn pull-out test showed a higher pull-out force for STF-impregnated fabrics, with 30 wt% STF demonstrating the highest pull-out speed. Ballistic impact tests revealed significant improvements in energy absorption for STF-impregnated fabrics compared to neat fabrics, with energy absorption enhancements of 4.40% for 10 wt%, 45.09% for 20 wt%, and 50.17% for 30 wt%. The increased nano-silica loading resulted in greater energy absorption, attributed to enhanced inter-yarn friction and improved fabric integrity.