A Tula engineer has developed a new explosion-proof panel to protect buildings and infrastructure from fragments and blast waves. The design combines metal armor, reinforced composite, and an elastic rubber layer, which not only stops damaging elements but also reduces the impact of the explosive impulse.
The development is made in the form of a three-layer panel designed for installation directly on the walls of structures without the use of additional massive supports. This solution should simplify the installation of protective systems and reduce the load on building structures.
The panel's base is a metal layer 6 to 12 mm thick, which acts as the main armor element. It absorbs the impact of fragments and provides the mechanical strength of the entire structure.
Between the metal base and the outer coating is a layer of polyurea composite reinforced with E-glass fibers. This material increases the panel's tear resistance, helps hold the metal layer under impact loads, and contributes to the dissipation of impact energy.
The outer part of the structure is made of rubber 10 to 30 mm thick. Thanks to its elasticity, this layer reduces the impact of the shock wave front, reducing the load on the metal base.
Additional protection is provided by rubber shock-absorbing elements attached to the back of the panel. They allow the structure to elastically deform under explosive impact and partially absorb the energy of the shock wave, without fully transferring it to the walls of the structure.
The developer notes that tests have confirmed the panel's resistance to explosive loads and fragment damage.
The panels are proposed to be produced in sizes from 500×1000 to 1500×3000 mm. Compared to multi-layer armor systems with several metal sheets, the new design is characterized by lower weight and simpler manufacturing technology.