Graphene Reinforced Multiphase Shear Thickening Fluid for Augmenting Low Velocity Ballistic Resistance

The impact resistance of panels made from p -aramid (Kevlar®) fabrics was improved by treating them with multiphase shear thickening fluids (STF) containing only 0.2 %, 0.4 % and 0.6 % graphene nanoplatelets. The multiphase STFs showed enhanced peak viscosity than their pure counterpart, signifying better shear thickening. The yarn pull-out force increased (25 %) in multiphase STF treated fabrics as compared to that of pure STF treated fabrics. The dynamic impact resistance also improved (6.5 % to 19.7 %) in multiphase STF treated fabrics. Finally, multiphase STF treated fabric panels demonstrated superior ballistic resistance, against low velocity ballistic impact (165±10 m/s) in terms of either energy absorption or number of bullets stopped.