Advanced composite materials such as polymer matrix composite (PMC), metal matrix composite (MMC), and ceramic matrix composite (CMC) are being used to create stronger fibers. These strong fibers find application in sports equipment and the defense sector. Ballistic composites are materials used to strengthen defensive statistics of armors, helmets, rocket shafts, communication antennae, torpedo sheds, and others.
Manufacturers are constantly innovating to create lightweight and efficient equipment that can mitigate armor weight. Resin-starved fibers are being used to increase resistance and toughness of missiles and other defensive equipment. Materials such as high-modulus polypropylene (HMPP), high-molecular-weight polyethylene (HMWPE), and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) are currently gaining prominence.
Novel Technologies being Developed by Leading Companies
Honeywell recently announced the launched of Centurion, its composite fabric designed to alleviate the weight of armor worn by law enforcement officers. The fabric is derived using UHMWPE at its base and is 15 times stronger than steel. Vests made from this fabric are lightweight in nature and can handle tough environments.
ANF Technologies has recently patented a process, Nafen, to utilize nanotechnology in its resins, epoxies, and polyurethanes. Among nanomaterials, graphene has the potential to lower material weight by 10 times. The Alchemie Group uses Nafen fibers with epoxy resins to create armor composite materials. It reportedly has twice the toughness of Kevlar and has displayed enhanced performance in defending against gunfire.
Market Outlook
The global ballistic composites market size is projected to touch nearly USD 2.2 billion by 2025, according to a report published by Grand View Research, Inc. It is driven by need for innovative gadgets and effective defensive tools to be used in combat. Increase in defense spending among nations and unstable geopolitical situations can drive market demand from 2014 to 2025 (forecast period).
The vehicle armor application is expected to expand at a considerable growth rate during the forecast period. Vehicle armor can safeguard lives of soldiers in the long run. North America is projected to capture a lion’s share in the market in the forthcoming years due to involvement of the U.S. military in wars to combat terrorism.
Key market players include Honeywell International, MKU, DuPont, and Teijin Limited.
In-Depth research report on Ballistic Composites Market:
https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/ballistic-composites-market
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