| Summary: | This study evaluates the hybridization effect of S2-glass/aramid on polyurethane (PU) composites produced by vacuum infusion. Different laminates were produced with similar thickness (around 2.5 mm), using, as reinforcement, only aramid fabrics (five layers, named as K<sub>5</sub>) or only S2-glass fabrics (eight layers, named as G<sub>8</sub>). Furthermore, hybridization was obtained by manufacturing symmetrical hybrid inter-ply laminates, with four S2-glass layers and two of aramid, (G<sub>2</sub>K)<sub>S</sub> and (KG<sub>2</sub>)<sub>S</sub>. The mechanical response of the laminates was evaluated in tensile, interlaminar shear strength, dynamical mechanical analysis and quasi-static indentation tests, and related to their morphological characteristics. The main results show that the pure glass composites presented less voids, but a higher density as well as higher tensile stiffness and strength. The aramid laminates showed a high capability for absorbing impact energy (ca. 30% higher than the pure glass laminates), and the hybrid laminates had intermediate properties. More importantly, this work shows the possibility of using a polyurethane matrix for vacuum infusion processing, effective even for aramid/S2-glass hybrid composites with thermoset polyurethane resin. This study is therefore promising for impact absorption in applications such as protective armor. The studied hybrid laminate may display a suitable set of properties and greater energy absorption capability and penetration resistance for impact applications.
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