A review of properties and fabrication techniques of fiber reinforced polymer nanocomposites subjected to simulated accidental ballistic impact

Composite structure experience ballistic or high velocity impact loading during in-flight operations owing to hail, bird and debris strike. In thin laminates, such an impact entails damage resulting from complex interplay of projectile characteristics, composite material properties and environmental conditions. Delamination resistance and energy absorption are two parameters to characterize the ballistic performance of materials in research community. As out of plane properties are controlled by matrix, its microstructural modification is the primary method through which ballistic performance of composites are sought to be improved. High specific surface area nanoparticles are now being used, for matrix modification, to induce nano-scale toughness mechanisms. This paper starts with brief outline of these mechanisms followed by summarizing nanocomposite fabrication techniques and ballistic impact performance of nanocly, graphene, carbon nanotube and other miscellaneous nanoparticle reinforced composites. Finally, it highlights unexplored areas in polymer nanocomposite research with focus on ballistic performance