Integrated solutions for safe fuel tanks

The integration of different tools for the prevention of fires or explosions due to impact or bullet damage may significantly improve the safety of fuel tanks. Self-healing polymers have demonstrated their ability to autonomous mending bullet punctures. The results of ballistic tests to check the response of multilayer structures based on self-healing ionomer and aramid fabric or carbon foam are presented in view of their potential employment as safety materials for dangerous liquids containment. Considerations related to the effect of coupling of different materials over self-healing response are discussed. A conceptual solution that integrates self-healing polymers or composites with cellular filler made of wrinkled aluminium foil for fuel tanks is proposed and discussed.