Dynamic stab resistance of multi-ply three-dimensional warp interlock fabrics with high-performance high-molecular-weight polyethylene yarns for protective applications

Fabrics constructed from 3 D warp interlock fabrics (3DWIFs) structures provide varying flexibility and durability and are promising structures for protective applications. However, its performance toward stab resistance from knife attack should be investigated before applying. In this work, the influences of fabric architectures, ply orientation of stacking sequences, and the number of fabric plies on the dynamic stab resistance are comparatively studied on high-molecular-weight polyethylene (HMWPE) 3DWIFs. It indicates that 3DWIF with orthogonal and through-the-thickness interlock structure reveals a helpful influence on stab resistance. Further investigation on the influence of different ply orientation of stacking sequences, based on the combination of fabrics placed at different angles, is analyzed showing a certain influence of stab resistance. Dynamic stab resistance reveals the linear correlation with a low number of fabric plies (less than 6 plies), but shows a parabolic relationship with the increase of fabric plies (more than 16 plies) until there is no penetration.