LiMBS - Lightweight Materials & Structures for Blast Survivability

The project will develop enhanced, lightweight, cost effective multi-layer/multi-material structures to resist shock-pressure impulse and impacts from land mine and free air explosive events. Increased occupant survivability is considered against blast and ballistic threats, including behind armour spall effects. The solution, based on a back-bone of fibre composite materials for light structural weight, will be augmented with tailored interlayers of shock dissipation, energy absorption and high failure strain materials. Dedicated models will be developed for optimised design and material selection, based on detailed material and failure characterisations. The project builds on partners’ blast/ballistic knowledge and modelling capability. The main innovations derive from novel multiple layered material solutions optimised by leading edge modelling tools.