Enhancing stab resistance of thermoset–aramid composite fabrics by coating with SiC particles

Aramid has been proved to have excellent ability to protect against ballistic threats however, it has poor puncture resistance. In this research, flexible fabric materials with outstanding stab resistance were prepared with thermoset–aramid composites coated with SiC particles. The stab resistance and mechanical properties of the flexible fabric composites were evaluated. Results showed that the stab resistance of the thermoset–aramid fabrics was effectively improved by the introduction of SiC particles; however, the tear force was slightly decreased. Composites coated with 20 wt.% SiC particles exhibited the best stab resistance against knife cut. Scanning electron microscopy observation showed that the irregular SiC particles were embedded into the gaps among aramid fibers. The increased stab resistance was ascribed to the fact that the introduced SiC particles with hard and refractory nature could highly enhance the fiber-to-fiber friction and blunt the sharp metal blade by abrasion.