Nanoparticle-Reinforced Elastomer Composites for Ballistic Energy Dissipation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current antiballistic materials are inadequate in absorbing and dissipating the kinetic energy from ballistic impacts and shockwaves generated by explosions, leading to insufficient protection against blast-induced traumatic brain injuries and structural damage.

Innovation Solution

Development of nanoparticle-reinforced elastomer composite materials that absorb and dissipate high energy forces through a combination of thermoplastic polyurethane polymers and reinforcing nanoparticles like graphite, nanoclay, and carbon60, forming layered composites to enhance energy absorption and ballistic resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If stiff and brittle fibers are used in composite materials for protective gear, then projectile penetration is prevented effectively, but the ability to absorb and dissipate kinetic energy and shockwaves is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojectile penetration resistanceVSAvoidkinetic energy absorption

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses composite materials combining elastomeric matrices with dispersed particulate fillers (rubber particles, thermoplastic particles) to create a material that simultaneously provides penetration resistance and energy absorption. The composite structure allows the elastomer to deform and absorb energy while the particulate reinforcement maintains structural integrity and prevents penetration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies the physical and chemical parameters of the base elastomer by incorporating various particulate fillers with different properties (rubber particles for elasticity, thermoplastic particles for energy dissipation). This changes the material's mechanical properties to achieve both penetration resistance and energy absorption capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If protective gear materials are designed to absorb and dissipate shockwave energy, then protection against blast injuries is improved, but the material may become heavier or less durable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshockwave energy dissipationVSAvoidmaterial durability

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs composite materials where the elastomeric matrix provides shockwave absorption through viscoelastic deformation, while the dispersed particulate fillers (rubber particles, thermoplastic particles) enhance durability and structural stability. This composite approach allows the material to dissipate shockwave energy effectively while maintaining long-term durability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates different types of particulate fillers distributed throughout the elastomeric matrix, creating local variations in material properties. Rubber particles provide elastic recovery and shock absorption in specific regions, while thermoplastic particles provide structural reinforcement and durability in other regions, achieving both shockwave dissipation and material reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The composite materials effectively absorb and dissipate high energy forces, providing enhanced protection against ballistic impacts and shockwaves, reducing the risk of blast-induced injuries and structural damage while maintaining lightweight and durable properties.

Implementation Method 1

the composite material absorbs and dissipates high energy forces more than the elastomer alone or the reinforcing nanoparticle material alone

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEnergy absorption: Deformation

Implementation Method 2

wherein the composite material absorbs and dissipates high energy forces

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEnergy dissipation: Viscoelasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11754374B2Energy absorbing nanocomposite materials and methods thereof

Publication Date: 2023.09.12 UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE RESEARCH FOUNDATION

AI summary

Composite materials capable of absorbing and dissipating high energy forces such as ballistic impacts and explosive blasts. Composites of elastomers and reinforcing nanoparticle materials are configured to absorb and dissipates high energy forces. Composites can be configured as nonwoven webs, and can be layered. Methods of making a ballistic resistant composite material capable of absorbing and dissipating high energy forces.