Effect of Temperature and Ply Angle on Performance of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) Laminates Under Low Velocity Impact

Low velocity impact tests were conducted on ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) laminates having different ply angle. The tests were conducted at various temperatures using steel impactor having 16mm diameter and hemi spherical shape. The selected impact energies are in the range of 50 to 250 Joule. The performance of the composites was compared with respect to peak force, maximum displacement and back face deformation. Results indicated that with increase of temperature, the contact duration increased whereas deceleration was reduced. Various failure mechanisms involved in energy absorption were also addressed.