In the defence sector, fibre-reinforced composites (FRCs) are used in application such as land systems, military aircraft, UAVs, naval vessels, and weapons.
The properties that make FRCs desirable for use in defence applications are:
- Lightweight – excellent for protective clothing and for vehicle components.
- Impact resistance – high strain/failure ratio. If the composite does fail on impact it will shatter and be less harmful to those in the surrounding area than metal.
- Can be coupled with other materials (e.g. metals and ceramics) to increase protection properties.
- Corrosion resistant – less “in field” maintenance required.
- Design for manufacture – e.g. full shapes can be designed and moulded as one piece, reducing the amount of parts needed and increasing production speed.
- Embedded functionality – monitoring systems can be integrated into the material.
Metal matrix composites (MMCs) are increasingly being used in modern armour systems due to their combination of high strength, hardness, and lightweight performance. By reinforcing metals such as aluminium or titanium with ceramic particles or fibres, MMCs provide superior ballistic resistance, impact absorption, and structural integrity compared with conventional metal alloys. These properties make them ideal for vehicle armour, personal protective equipment, and critical components in military platforms, where reducing weight without compromising protection is essential. MMCs also maintain performance under extreme temperature and environmental conditions, enhancing survivability and operational effectiveness in defence applications.
Case Studies
Defence Repair Technology used in Aerospace – JR Technology Case Study