The surface modification of ballistic textiles using plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition (PACVD)

Abstract

This paper describes studies on the surface modification of so-called ballistic materials (materials commonly used to protect the human body against firearms, i.e. fragments or bullets). Two materials, an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composite and aramid fabric, were investigated. The surfaces of these fibrous materials were modified using plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition (PACVD) to examine the effects of the modification on the material properties, which are important for designing ballistic protections. Accordingly, both the mechanical strength and water resistance of the modified materials were tested. The results clearly show the impact of the modification on both parameters.