Evaluation of anti-stabbing performance of fabric layers woven with various hybrid yarns under different fabric conditions

Various types of special fibers are used for human body protection, mostly in the form of fiber-reinforced composites. These composites are made of special fibers and matrix resin; however, they are often not comfortable for the wearer due to the lack of flexibility and air permeability. This study focuses on an evaluation of human body protective performance against stabbing for various special fibers such as aramid, basalt, and steel fibers, being utilized in cotton hybrid forms. These hybrid forms are designed to improve wearer comfort, while maintaining adequate anti-stab resistance. Specimens prepared with various fabric densities are tested in terms of anti-stabbing performance, according to the NIJ standard. In addition, we investigate the influence of factors such as fiber type, the number of fabric layers, fabric weight, and fabric density on anti-stabbing performance. Results show that the penetration depth of the impactor, which punctures and protrudes through the specimens, decreases with the number of layers, the thickness, and the mass of the armor sample; however, these factors have different relationships according to the material type. Consequently an objective evaluation of anti-stabbing performance is needed. We suggest an anti-stabbing index that can be applied as a criterion to evaluate the antistabbing performance of various specimens woven with special fibers under different fabric conditions. Using the new index, anti-stabbing performances of various specimens can be compared and raw material and fabric conditions that offer the most efficient anti-stabbing performance can be selected.