Molding of polypropylene film armor for radar antenna hardening applications

The general objective of this project was to establish a production capability for rigid armor panels molded from cross-plied, unidirectionally oriented polypropylene film. Armor of this type has applicability as a radome material. The purpose of establishing this production capability is to provide for the contingency of meeting estimated military needs for a period of two years after completion of the contract and, to establish a base and plans which may be used to meet expanded requirements. to fulfill the stated objective it was necessary to complete the following tasks: Engineering Sample Phase: design and proof tooling; verify processes which were furnished at the beginning of the project; and preliminary testing; Confirmatory Sample Phase: fabrication of sufficient samples using the established process for more comprehensive testing; and testing of samples; and Demonstration Phase: document process used and equipment required; and brief interested parties and conduct complete process demonstration. These tasks were successfully performed and the general objective of this project has been achieved. A production capability for polypropylene armor has been established, and in the process, opportunities for additional process advances have been identified.