Study on ballistic materials for armoured vehicles: integration on a prototypal vehicle

This thesis investigates ballistic materials in the field of automotive armouring. With reference to a case study armoured vehicle, the aim is to find alternative materials, which show improved characteristics with respect to the ones applied for the case study armouring. The research is conducted through literature and direct contact with the suppliers of ballistic materials, comparing their physical, mechanical and ballistic properties. After analysing the prototypal vehicle and evaluating the critical issues for each zone and component of the armouring, a comparison between the materials suggested by the suppliers is performed from the point of view of density, required thickness to guarantee the requested protection level, flexibility or mouldability, maximum operating temperature and costs. Relying on the obtained results one or more suitable materials are chosen for the armouring application and a sample is subjected to experimental tests to evaluate its deformability and installation feasibility.