A previously validated numerical model is used to computationally investigate thepenetration of thick ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) panels byfragment simulating projectiles. Penetration of such panels has been previously determinedto occur in two stages: an initial localised penetration phase followed by a bulging phaseduring which failure occurs through membrane tension. In the bulging stage, UHMW-PEcomposite is able to exhibit large bulge deformation because mode II delamination occursas a result of the transit of an initial pressure wave ahead of the projectile. The bulging stageis found to provide a significantly higher ballistic efficiency than the initial localisedpenetration stage. The transition between these two stages was found to occur where therelease wave reflected from the panel rear surface interacts with the projectile.
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