Shear Thickening Fluids for Ballistic Textile Applications: Mechanisms, Performance, and Limitations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63456/tsrj-2-3-52Keywords:
Shear thickening fluid (STF), Hydro-clustering, jamming, agglomerationAbstract
Shear thickening fluids (STFs) have attracted considerable attention for improving the impact resistance of flexible textile-based ballistic protection systems. These non-Newtonian suspensions show an increase in resistance to deformation when subjected to high shear rates while maintaining a relatively low resistance under slow deformation. This behavior provides an opportunity to modify the mechanical response of high-performance fabrics without completely sacrificing their flexibility and conformability. This review examines the application of STFs in ballistic textile systems, with particular emphasis on their rheological behavior, mechanisms of shear thickening, interaction with textile structures, and influence on ballistic performance. The principal mechanisms associated with shear thickening, including order–disorder transition, hydroclustering, and jamming, are discussed in relation to particle concentration, interparticle interactions, and applied shear conditions. The effects of STF treatment on yarn mobility, inter-yarn friction, energy absorption, and projectile resistance are also considered, particularly for high-performance fibers such as Kevlar and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). In addition, the review addresses practical limitations associated with STF-treated fabrics, including increased areal density, changes in flexibility, particle agglomeration, environmental sensitivity, and the dependence of performance on impact conditions. The challenges of maintaining effective shear-thickening behavior during high-rate and ballistic loading receive particular attention. Finally, current research gaps and potential approaches for improving STF stability, textile integration, and ballistic performance are discussed. The review provides an overview of the opportunities and limitations of STF-treated textiles for the development of lightweight and flexible ballistic protection systems.
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