Study on bulletproof performance of functionalized fabrics modified by microcapsules

The incorporation of microcapsule particles (MPs) into fabrics offers the potential to enhance both the friction between fabric yarns and the bulletproof impact performance. In this study, MPs were prepared using the interfacial polymerization method. Furthermore, an innovative modification of the AF fabric was achieved by introducing a silane coupling agent and MPs. This resulted in the development of a microcapsules-aramid fibers (MPs-AF) composite material exhibiting excellent protective performance. The characterization experiment demonstrated the successful adhesion of MPs to the AF fabric, forming a robust bond between the fiber and the particles. Importantly, the modification process did not have any adverse effects on the fiber structure. The study further investigated the ballistic performance and protection mechanism of the modified fabrics through mechanical performance tests and ballistic impact tests. The yarn pull-out experiment revealed that the MPs-AF composite material exhibited a significant increase in pull-out force, with a remarkable improvement of 175.6% compared to AF fabric. In the ballistic impact experiments, the MPs-AF composite material demonstrated a substantial increase in ballistic limit velocity, rising from 52 to 118 m/s when compared to the AF fabric. These findings highlight the potential application of the MPs-AF composite material in the field of wearable protection. Highlights: Fiber surface modification grafting reaction. A simple and novel solution impregnation method was used to prepare modified AF. Preparation of microcapsule particles by interfacial polymerization. Green new fiber bulletproof material. Chemical grafting produces strong chemical bonds to increase interfacial resistance.