Kinetic Energy Non-Lethal Weapons
Testing Methodology
Skin Penetration Assessment
B. Anctil
Biokinetics and Associates Ltd.
Prepared By:
Biokinetics and Associates Ltd.
2470 Don Reid Drive
Ottawa, Ontario
K1H 1E1
Contractor's Document Number: R13-07
Contract Project Manager: Benoit Anctil, 613-736-0384
PWGSC Contract Number: W7701-061933/001/QCL (AT69)
CSA: Daniel Bourget, Defence Scientist, 418-844-4000 ext.4228
The scientific or technical validity of this Contract Report is entirely the responsibility of the Contractor and the
contents do not necessarily have the approval or endorsement of Defence R&D Canada.
Defence Research and Development Canada
Contract Report
DRDC-RDDC-2016-C300
March 2013
Principal Author
Original signed by Benoit Anctil
Benoit Anctil
Senior Engineer
Approved by
Original signed by Daniel Bourget
Daniel Bourget
Defence Scientist
Approved for release by
Original signed by Dr. Dennis Nandlall
Dr. Dennis Nandlall
Head, Weapons Effects and Protection Section
© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence, 2013
© Sa Majesté la Reine (en droit du Canada), telle que représentée par le ministre de la Défense nationale,
2013
Abstract
Material variability and difficulty in data interpretation have been identified as major limitations
for the surrogate proposed in the draft NIJ standard to assess the risk of skin penetration by
kinetic energy non-lethal weapons. Experimental trials were conducted in the current study to
identify an alternative material to solve these issues. The results indicated that one layer of a
thermoplastic polyurethane film (400 μm thick) provides similar penetration limits (V50) to the
natural chamois currently specified in the draft standard. In addition, it was found that the foam
layer of the NIJ skin-soft tissue surrogate can be removed without affecting the penetration limit
(V50) obtained when using the thermoplastic polyurethane film as the first layer. The findings of
this study suggest that the current surrogate can be modified to simplify the setup and analysis
techniques while providing similar outcomes.
i
This page intentionally left blank.
ii
Executive summary
Kinetic Energy Non-Lethal Weapons Testing Methodology: Skin
Penetration Assessment
Benoit Anctil; DRDC Valcartier CR; Defence R&D Canada – Valcartier; March
2013.
Introduction: The NATO STANREC committee on blunt impact kinetic energy non-lethal
weapon has identified two major limitations with the surrogate proposed in the draft NIJ standard
to assess the risk of skin penetration. First, the inherent variability of the natural chamois is not
desirable for a test standard where consistency and repeatability is critical. Second, the use of a
foam sheet complicates the analysis of penetration with the addition of an intermediate layer
between the chamois and the ballistic gelatine.
Experimental trials were conducted to identify an alternative material to replace the natural
chamois and to remove the foam layer of the current NIJ skin-soft tissue surrogate.
Results: An average ballistic limit (V50) value of 131.5 m/s was obtained with a 400 μm thick
thermoplastic polyurethane film which corresponded to the average V50 measured with the
natural chamois during a previous study.
Further tests with the 400 μm thermoplastic polyurethane film but without the intermediated foam
layer reduced the V50 to 130 m/s which is within the range of variability measured for the foam
configuration.
These findings suggest that the current NIJ skin-soft tissue surrogate can be modified to simplify
the setup and analysis techniques while providing similar outcomes.
Significance: Terminal effects assessment of KE projectiles is essential to the Canadian Forces
for selecting the most appropriate NLW for their needs.
Future plans: Future work should be aimed at replacing the 20% gelatine (10oC) with either the
10% gelatine (4oC) or a synthetic gel to further reduce testing cost and improve repeatability.
Furthermore, the draft NIJ Penetration Standard should be revised by end users and updated to be
more practical.
iii
Tab
ble of co
ontents
Abstract ... ............................................................................................................................................ i Execu
utive summarry ........................................................................................................................... iiii Tablee of contents ............................................................................................................................... iiv List of
o figures ..................................................................................................................................... v List of
o tables ...................................................................................................................................... vvi 1 In
ntroduction.................................................................................................................................. 1 2 Materials
M
and Methods
M
................................................................................................................. 2 2.1 Samplee Preparation ........................................................................................................... 2 2.2 Projectiile ........................................................................................................................... 3 2.3 Setup ................................................................................................................................. 3 2.4 Test Pro
ocedure .................................................................................................................. 4 3 Results
R
.......................................................................................................................................... 6 3.1 Gelatin
ne Validation ........................................................................................................... 6 3.2 Tuftanee Evaluation ........................................................................................................... 7 3.3 Foam Layer
L
Removaal ....................................................................................................... 9 4 Conclusions
C
an
nd Recommen
ndations .......................................................................................... 111 References ........................................................................................................................................ 113 Annex
x A .. Draft NIJ
N Penetration
n Standard....................................................................................... 115 Annex
x B ... Procedu
ures for Reconstituting Gelatine ......................................................................... 222 B.1 B
MIXIN
NG ......................................................................................................................... 222 B.2 B
CONDIITIONING ........................................................................................................... 223 Annex
x C ... Test Daata (Tuftane Evaluation)
E
...................................................................................... 224 Annex
x D .. Test Daata (Foam Lay
yer Removal)) ................................................................................. 333 iv
List of figures
Figure 1. Skin penetration schematic test setup. ............................................................................. 1 Figure 2. NIJ skin-soft tissue surrogate. .......................................................................................... 1 Figure 3. Test projectile. .................................................................................................................. 3 Figure 4. Test setup. ........................................................................................................................ 3 Figure 5. Test specimen. .................................................................................................................. 4 Figure 6. Gelatine validation. .......................................................................................................... 6 Figure 7. Surface damage. ............................................................................................................... 7 Figure 8. Penetration. ...................................................................................................................... 7 Figure 9. Damages to layer 1,2, and 3. ............................................................................................ 8 Figure 10. Projectile embedded in surrogate. .................................................................................. 8 Figure 11. Average V50. ................................................................................................................. 8 Figure 12. No foam configuration. .................................................................................................. 9 Figure 13. No damage to layer 1 . ................................................................................................... 9 Figure 14. Layer 1 damage. ........................................................................................................... 10 Figure 15. Projectile trapped in layer 1. ........................................................................................ 10 Figure 16. V50 with and without foam layer................................................................................. 10 Figure 17. Proposed Skin-soft tissue surrogate configuration. ...................................................... 11 v
List of tables
Table 1. Tuftane properties.............................................................................................................. 2 Table 2. Test matrix. ........................................................................................................................ 5 Table 3. Gelatine validation data. .................................................................................................... 7 Table 4. Penetration limits. .............................................................................................................. 9 vi
1
Introduction
The objective
o
of th
his task is to re-define the components of the skin-ssoft tissue surrrogate (Figurre
1) deescribed in th
he draft NIJ Penetration Standard (A
Annex A) to evaluate thee risk of skiin
penetrration from kinetic
k
energy
y non-lethal weapons
w
(KEN
NLW). The N
NIJ skin-soft tiissue surrogaate
is com
mprised natural chamois (laayer 1), closeed cell foam (llayer 2) and bballistic gelatin (layer 3).
Figuree 1. Skin peneetration schem
matic test setuup.
The NATO STANREC (standardizattion
recom
mmendation) committee on
o blunt imp
pact
kinetiic energy non
n-lethal weap
pons (KENL
LW)
has id
dentified two
o major limittations with the
surrog
gate proposed in the draaft NIJ stand
dard
(Figurre 2). First, th
he inherent variability
v
of the
naturaal chamois is
i not desiraable for a test
t
standaard where con
nsistency and
d repeatability
y is
criticaal. Second, th
he use of closed cell foam for
the analysis of
the under
u
layer complicates
c
penetrration due to the ad
ddition of an
interm
mediate layer.
Figgure 2. NIJ ski
kin-soft tissue surrogate.
Previo
ous work con
nducted by UK
K representatiives on the N
NATO STANR
REC committtee identifiedd a
therm
moplastic poly
yurethane (TP
PU) film (Tu
uftane, Perm
mali Goucesterr Ltd., UK) as a potential
replaccement to thee natural chaamois. A series of experim
mental trials described in the followinng
sectio
on were cond
ducted to deteermine the th
hickness of T
TPU film reqquired to obtaain penetratioon
resistaance comparaable to human
n skin as was established bby Wayne Staate Universityy [1].
1
2
2.1
Materiials and Method
ds
Samplle Preparration
A 20%
% gelatine/waater ratio mix
xture was prep
pared followiing Fackler’s recommendaations [2] usinng
the prrocedure desccribed in Anneex B. Foam of
o 6 mm thickkness (Darice Inc.) was purrchased from
ma
local arts and craftts store (Mich
hael’s) and in
n square piecees of approxiimately 100 m
mm x 100 mm
m.
Threee thicknesses of
o Tuftane (g
grade TFL-1E
EA) were acquuired: 300 μm
m, 400 μm, annd 500 μm. Thhe
physiccal propertiess of the different Tuftane grades
g
are listee in Table 1.
Table 1. Tuftane
T
propeerties.
2
2.2
Projec
ctile
The projectile
p
useed for the sttudy was thee rubber fins
stabiliized batons (RB-1-FS, Part No. 4900, MK
K
Ballisstics Systemss) shown in Figure 3. The
T
nominal
diameeter and masss of the RB-1-FS are 18 mm
m and 6.5 g,
respecctively.
2.3
Figuure 3. Test projectile.
Setup
The projectiles
p
weere fired using
g a portable gas
g gun desiggned and mannufactured byy CADEX Innc.
(Figurre 4) as per the requirem
ments establish
hed by DRD C Valcartier under a prevvious contracct.
Light gates integraated into the gas
g gun weree used to meaasure the veloocity of the pprojectiles. Thhe
specim
men was positioned at app
proximately 0.8
0 m from thhe muzzle in a containment chamber oon
an adjjustable targeeting table (Figure 5).
Figuree 4. Test setupp.
3
Figure 5.
5 Test specim
men.
2.4
Test Procedure
P
e
Guideelines of typical V50 test methods [3] were followeed. The penettration limit w
was calculateed
from the arithmetiic mean of im
mpact velocitties for three partial and tthree complette penetrationns
occurring within a 45 m/s ran
nge. The folllowing definnition (from the draft N
NIJ Penetratioon
Stand
dard) was used
d to assess co
omplete penetrration:
“A test will
w be categ
gorized as a penetration
p
i f the test ressults in visibble
damage to
t the ballistiic gelatin (alsso known as tthe Penetratioon Assessmennt
Layer), with
w or withou
ut perforation
n of the Laceraation Assessm
ment Layers.””
High speed video was recordeed with one camera
c
oriennted perpendiicular to the line of fire tto
estimaate yaw anglee. Test shots with excessiv
ve yaw anglee were rejecteed. Gelatine vvalidation tessts
with BB
B projectiles were condu
ucted as descriibed in the drraft NIJ standard (Annex A
A).
A testt matrix is presented in Taable 2. Test ID
D No. 10 connsists of increeasing the nuumber of layers
of Tu
uftane (400μm
m) in front of the gelatine block while ffiring the refeerence projecctile at 130 m
m/s
until partial
p
penetrration is achieeved. All thee other tests cconsist of typpical V50 testts as describeed
previo
ously.
4
Table 2. Test matrix.
Test ID
Test Type
Reference Velocity
(m/s)
Layer 1
Layer 2
Layer 3
1
V50
130
Tuftane 400 μm
6mm foam
20% gelatine
2
V50
130
Tuftane 400 μm
6mm foam
20% gelatine
3
V50
130
Tuftane 400 μm
6mm foam
20% gelatine
4
V50
130
Tuftane 300 μm
6mm foam
20% gelatine
5
V50
130
Tuftane 300 μm
6mm foam
20% gelatine
6
V50
130
Tuftane 300 μm
6mm foam
20% gelatine
7
V50
130
Tuftane 500 μm
6mm foam
20% gelatine
8
V50
130
Tuftane 500 μm
6mm foam
20% gelatine
9
V50
130
Tuftane 500 μm
6mm foam
20% gelatine
10
Vproof
130
"?" x Tuftane 400 μm1
n/a
20% gelatine
11
V50
130
"A" x Tuftane 400 μm1
n/a
20% gelatine
130
"A" x Tuftane 400 μm
1
n/a
20% gelatine
"A" x Tuftane 400 μm
1
n/a
20% gelatine
12
13
V50
V50
130
Note 1: Find the number of layers "A" required to achieve partial penetration.
5
3
Results
3.1
Gelatine Validation
Gelatine blocks were prepared as per the instructions provided in Annex A. The blocks were kept
in the conditioning chamber at 4oC. Blocks were removed from the conditioning chamber
approximately 2 hours before testing, until the internal temperature reached 10±1oC. The stiffness
of the gelatine blocks was evaluated by measuring the depth of penetration of a .177 caliber BB
projectile (4.5 mm, 5.35 gr). The acceptable range of projectile velocity and the corresponding
penetration depth range are indicated by the red square in Figure 6. Detailed gelatine validation
data are provided in Table 3. The majority of the validation results fell within the lower portion of
the acceptable range, indicating a stiffer gelatine consistency.
90
A
80
B
70
Depth of Penetration (mm)
C
60
D
50
E
40
F
30
G
20
H
10
limit
0
160
165
170
175
180
185
Velocity (m/s)
Figure 6. Gelatine validation.
6
190
195
200
Table 3. Gellatine validatiion data.
3.2
Block ID
Shot No.
Te
emperature
o
( C)
Speed
(m/s)
D
Depth
((mm)
A
B
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
10.3
10.9
11.0
10.2
10.8
10.1
10.1
10.1
9.9
179.5
169.8
180.1
174.6
176.8
177.1
183.4
175.5
183.9
38.5
38.2
40.7
40.2
40.3
39.5
49.9
32.4
42.3
Tuftan
ne Evalua
ation
The penetration
p
assessment
a
reesults are preesented in T
Table 4 and summarized in Figure 11.
Detailled test resultts are provideed in Annex C.
C As indicateed in Section 2.4, only visible damage tto
the baallistic gelatine is requireed to indicatee a complete penetration even if theree is no visible
damag
ge to the otheer layers. Forr the current study, damagge to the gelaatine was typpically minim
mal
for a complete peenetration, wiith only smalll tears at thhe surface off the block (F
Figure 8). Thhe
averag
ge V50 obtaiined with thee 400 μm thicckness (131.55 m/s) is exaactly the sam
me value as thhe
averag
ge V50 meassured with thee natural cham
mois during a previous stuudy [4]. On tthe other hand,
the av
verage V50 ob
btained with the
t 500 μm th
hickness (1377 m/s) corresppond to an eneergy density oof
24 J/ccm2. This eneergy density was determin
ned by Waynne State Univversity as thee threshold foor
skin penetration.
p
Figure
F
7 to Fiigure 10 show
w typical dam
mage observedd during the ttests. It shoulld
be noted that for all
a tests, no teear was observ
ved in the Tuuftane film. T
This material is very elastiic,
stretch
hing significaantly under im
mpact as observed on the hhigh speed viddeo images.
Figure 7. Surface da
amage.
Figure 8. Penetratioon.
7
Figure 9. Dam
mages to layer 1,2, and 3.
Figurre 10. Projecttile embeddedd in surrogatee.
Figure 11.
1 Average V
V50.
8
Table 4. Penetration
P
liimits.
Tes
st ID
Layer 1
Lay
yer 2
Layer 3
V50
(m/s)
Spread
(m/s)
1
Tuftane
T
400μm
6mm
m foam
20% gelatine
133
23
2
Tuftane
T
400μm
6mm
m foam
20% gelatine
134
33
3
Tuftane
T
400μm
6mm
m foam
20% gelatine
127
12
4
Tuftane
T
300μm
6mm
m foam
20% gelatine
129
12
5
Tuftane
T
300μm
6mm
m foam
20% gelatine
125
12
6
Tuftane
T
300μm
6mm
m foam
20% gelatine
129
11
7
Tuftane
T
500μm
6mm
m foam
20% gelatine
137
14
8
Tuftane
T
500μm
6mm
m foam
20% gelatine
137
14
9
Tuftane
T
500μm
6mm
m foam
20% gelatine
137
20
3.3
Foam Layer Re
emoval
The reemoval of thee foam layer was investigaated to improove the consisstency in evalluating the rissk
of skiin penetration
n from KENLW
W, see test ID
D# 10-13 of T
Table 2.
With only one layeer of 400 μm Tuftane mateerial (Figure 12), the first shot resultedd in a complete
penetrration while the
t second sh
hot at the sam
me velocity (1 30 m/s) resullted in a partiial penetrationn.
Testin
ng was repeatted with the 300 μm thickn
ness and simillar results weere obtained. T
Test details arre
provid
ded in Annex
x D.
Consiidering this uncertainty, th
he original tesst matrix wass modified to assess the peenetration lim
mit
of onlly 1 layer of Tuftane mateerial (no foam
m layer) for tthe three thickknesses acquuired. In Figurre
16, th
he results obtaained are com
mpared to thee outcomes off the previouus section. Onnly the 500 μm
m
thickn
ness resulted in a higher penetration
p
liimit in compparison with tthe results obbtained for thhe
config
guration with
h the foam lay
yer. The V50 for the 400 μ
μm thickness stand-alone ((without foam
m)
was within
w
the ran
nge of variabiility measured
d for the foam
m configuratiion. Figure 13 to Figure 115
show typical damaage to the sam
mples after imp
pact.
Figure 12. No
N foam conffiguration.
Figure 13. N
No damage to layer 1 .
9
Figure 14. Layer 1 da
amage.
Figgure 15. Projeectile trappedd in layer 1.
Figurre 16. V50 wiith and withouut foam layerr.
10
4
Conclusions and
a Rec
commen
ndations
s
Experrimental evaluation of a synthetic
s
material to replaace the first llayer of the sskin-soft tissuue
surrog
gate described
d in the draft NIJ Penetrattion Standard (Annex A) w
was conducted successfullyy.
Analy
ysis of the results indicated
d that:
1)) 1 layer off thermoplasttic polyureth
hane (TPU) ffilm, Tuftanee grade TFL--1EA, 400 μm
m
thick. (Perrmali Goucesster Ltd., UK
K) provides ssimilar penettration limitss (V50) to thhe
natural chaamois;
2)) the second
d layer (6 mm
m foam) of the NIJ skinn-soft tissue surrogate caan be removeed
without afffecting the penetration
p
liimit (V50) oobtained wheen using the Tuftane gradde
TFL-1EA, 400 μm thick
k. as the first layer.
A configuration with
w
only 2 layers as illlustrated in Figure 17 iis recommennded in futurre
impleementation off the draft NIIJ Penetration
n Standard. T
This option w
will simplify the setup annd
analysis of the resu
ults.
Figure
F
17. Prroposed Skin--soft tissue su rrogate confi
figuration.
mparison witth a 10% gellatine mixture, a 20% gellatine requirees at least tw
wice the labouur
In com
resourrces and thuss increases the testing costts accordinglyy. Additionallly, it requires a specializeed
conditioning cham
mber to reach the 10oC insttead of the sttandard refriggerating equippment used foor
the 10
0% gelatine (4oC). Futuree work shoulld aimed at rreplacing the 20% gelatinne (10oC) witth
eitherr the 10% gellatine (4oC) or
o a synthetic gel (e.g. Perrma-Gel, httpp://www.perm
ma-gel.com/) tto
reduce testing costt and improvee repeatability
y. Penetrationn assessmentss with any off the alternativve
materrials would haave to be conffirmed.
Whilee the Tuftanee material waas found to be
b a suitable replacement for the naturral chamois, it
presen
nts some issu
ues for its use in a performaance test standdard:
111

The quantity required for a typical test program is minimal in comparison with the
production volumes. This item is not typically available in such small quantity unless the
manufacturer changes its policy.

The manufacturer may decide to change the formulation of the Tuftane grade TFL-1EA
in the future which will most likely affect the penetration assessment results.

The batch-to-batch variability of the Tuftane material is unknown.
One or two equivalent materials for the skin surrogate should be identified in a future version of
the NIJ Penetration Standard. Detailed description of the relevant physical properties and a simple
compliance test will have to be considered to ensure that the materials identified provide
equivalent penetration assessment results.
Furthermore, the draft NIJ Penetration Standard described in Annex A should be revised by end
users and updated to be more practical. As a minimum, the following items should be considered:
a) include a detailed method to prepare gelatine block similar to Annex B;
b) add part number, manufacturer, detailed specifications, and 1 or 2 replacement options
for the purchased skin materials;
c) include a V50 test procedure and calculation method;
d) include more details on how to support the skin-soft tissue surrogate to ensure
consistency across laboratories;
e) state the minimum length required for the gelatine block when damaged portions are
removed for subsequent tests;
f) add a method to measure the yaw of projectiles.
12
References
[1]
Bir, A. C., Stewart, S. J., and Wilhelm, M., Skin penetration assessment of less lethal
kinetic energy munitions, Journal of Forensic Sciences, vol. 50, pp. 1426-9, 2005.
[2]
Fackler, M. L. and Malinowski, J. A., Ordance Gelatin for Ballistic Studies, The
American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology, vol. 9, pp. 218-219, 1988.
[3]
MIL-STD-662F, V50 Ballistic Test For Armor, 18 December, 1997.
[4]
Anctil, B., Less Lethal Munitions Study - Penetration Assessment, Biokinetics and
Associates Ltd., Ottawa, R10-03, March, 2010.
13
This page intentionally left blank.
14
Ann
nex A
Draft NIJ Penettration S
Standard
d
PENE
ETRATION ASSESSMEN
A
NT OF LESS LETHAL MU
UNITIONS
1. PU
URPOSE AND
D SCOPE
1.1 Pu
urpose
The purpose
p
of this procedurre is to estab
blish minimuum performaance requirem
ments and teest
metho
ods for the penetration assessment of less
l
lethal mu
munitions. Thee scope of thhe procedure is
limiteed to penetrattion only; it does
d
not aim
m to address th
threats from bblunt trauma nor make anny
infereences as to thee accuracy off said rounds.
1.2 Sccope
The threat
t
posed by a non-peenetrating prrojectile is deependent upoon its compoosition, shappe,
dimen
nsions, mass, and velocity. If design orr constructionn is altered in any way the rounds shoulld
be re--tested accord
ding to this tesst procedure.
1.3 Baackground
The risk
r
of penetrrating trauma is importantt to assess duue to the incrrease in severrity of injuriees
seen once
o
the mun
nition penetraates into the body
b
cavity. One factor too consider is the amount oof
energy generated by
b the munition. In additio
on, it is imporrtant to determ
mine the enerrgy per area oof
presen
ntation ratio or E/a valu
ue. This valu
ue takes intoo account thhe mass, veloocity, and thhe
crossssectional areaa of the projeectile. Simply
y reporting eenergy is insuufficient for comparison oof
different samples and
a projectiles.
A hyp
podermic needle provides an example of
o how the toolerance of thee skin to peneetration can bbe
based
d on energy density.
d
The sharpness
s
of the
t needle prrovides a veryy low contactt area betweeen
the kn
nife and the sk
kin. Therefore, very little force
f
is requirred to penetraate through thhe skin.
The current
c
toleraance for peneetration is baased on the rregion of conncern on the body. Recennt
researrch has demo
onstrated vario
ous E/a requiired to producce a 50% riskk of penetratiion for variouus
region
ns of the body
y. The values are as follow
ws:
Location
500% Risk
(JJ/cm )
2
On Anterior Rib
R
233.99
Between Antterior Rib 333.30
Liver
399.88
Lateral to Um
mbilicus
344.34
Proximal Fem
mur
266.13
Distal Femurr
288.13
115
The specified test sequence requires the use of a combination of 20% ordnance gelatin, 0.60 cm
foam, and natural chamois. Previous studies have used 20% ordnance gelatin to represent internal
organs, while the foam and chamois represent skin and subcutaneous fat. This combination has
been validated as an acceptable thoracic surrogate for purposes of penetration assessment
[Stewart, 2004]. This surrogate has not been validated for blunt trauma assessment.
2. DEFINITIONS
Items in quotations are taken directly from the National Institute of Justice Standard 0101.04,
“Ballistic Resistance of Police Body Armor”
2.1 Angle of Incidence
The angle between the line of flight of the bullet and the perpendicular to the front surface of the
backing material fixture.
2.2 Fair Hit
A round that impacts the intended target at an angle of incidence no greater than ± 5° from the
intended angle of incidence and the impact is 10 mm from any edge of the Assessment Layers.
2.3 Model
“A manufacturer’s designation (name, number, or other description) that serves to uniquely
identify a specific configuration” of kinetic energy munition.
2.4 Penetration Assessment Layer (PAL)
The internal component of the surrogate used to assess the occurrence of penetration. The PAL is
composed of 20% ballistic gelatin.
2.5 Laceration Assessment Layer (LAL)
The external covering of the PAL used to assess the occurrence of laceration. The LAL is
composed of an outer layer of natural chamois and an inner layer of 0.60 cm closed cell foam.
2.6 No injury
A result will be categorized as “no injury” if no visible damage has occurred to either the LAL or
the PAL.
2.7 Laceration
A result will be categorized as “laceration” if one of the LAL layers is penetrated or penetration
of both LAL layers without visible perforation of the PAL layer.
2.8 Penetration
16
A test will be categorized as a penetration if the test results in visible damage to the ballistic
gelatin (also known as the Penetration Assessment Layer), with or without perforation of the
Laceration Assessment Layers.
2.9 Strike Face
The surface of the Penetration Surrogate that faces the incoming kinetic energy munition.
3. REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Acceptance Criteria
A kinetic energy munition is considered to have acceptable penetration resistance if zero
penetrations occur in the ten rounds tested. If a penetration occurs during the test sequence, the
remaining rounds will be tested in the sequence and all results will be recorded.
3.2 Sampling
All samples will be provided by the manufacturer prior to the day of the test for proper
conditioning. Only rounds of the same construction, to include design, mass, and intended
velocity, will constitute a test sequence.
Ten kinetic energy munitions shall be required to complete a test sequence. Additional samples
will be required in the event that additional shots are necessary due to unfair hits. Unused rounds
will be returned to the manufacturer following the test sequence.
4. TEST PROCEDURE
4.1 Test Set-up
4.1.1 Materials
4.1.1.1 Ordnance Gelatin
Ordnance gelatin blocks will be used as the Penetration Assessment Layer (PAL) for this test
procedure [Stewart, 2004]. Kind & Knox 250 Type A gelatin has been used during previous
testing with success. Gelatin blocks will be made in 20% concentrations and will be stored at
10°C prior to use. Blocks will be 4” x 4” x 12” in size. Molds are available at www.wilton.com
(Stock # 2105-1588).
4.1.1.2 Foam
The foam used in this test procedure is 0.60 cm closed cell foam available from Darice Inc. at
www.darice.com (Part number 1199-20).
4.1.1.3 Natural Chamois
The natural chamois used in this test procedure is available from J & T Beaven, Ltd. (Sussex,
England), stock number 45094. The optimum thickness is 1.39 mm (1.15 to 1.80 mm).
17
4.1.2 Surrogate Construction
The ordnance gelatin shall be placed between two layers of plexiglass for the purpose of
containing the combination of layers. The fixture will then be placed on a pneumatic lift table in
order to adjust the height of the table. The Laceration Assessment Layer (LAL) will be placed on
the front face of the gelatin. The LAL layers will be secured to the gelatin with adjustable elastic
straps. For subsequent tests the gelatin shall be cut to expose a surface free from damage.
4.1.3 Equipment
Section 4.1.3 is taken directly from the National Institute of Justice 0101.04 Standard.
4.1.3.1 Test Weapons
The test weapons shall be ANSI/SAAMI unvented velocity test barrels.
4.1.3.2 Test Weapon Fixtures
The ANSI/SAAMI test barrels will be mounted in an ANSI/SAAMI Universal Receiver.
The receiver/mount will be attached to a table or other fixture having sufficient mass and restraint
to ensure accurate targeting of repetitively fired rounds.
4.1.3.3 Velocity Measurement Equipment
4.1.3.3a Requirements
Test round velocities will be determined using two independent sets of instrumentation.
Velocities from each set of instrumentation will be recorded, and the arithmetic mean of the two
velocities will be calculated and recorded. The measured individual test velocities recorded from
each set shall be within 3 m/s (10 ft/s) of each other to be considered a fair velocity. If the
specified correlation is not achieved, the test velocity shall be that obtained from the widest
instrument spacing (as applicable).
4.1.3.3b Equipment
Recommended types of equipment for velocity measurement are:
(a) Photo electric light screens.
(b) Printed make circuit screens.
(c) Printed break circuit screens.
(d) Ballistic radar.
Independent sets of velocity measurement may be obtained using two pairs of photo electric light
screens, two sets of make screens, two sets of break screens, or any paired set combination.
Chronographs, counters, storage scopes, or other digital instruments used to record the
18
measurement equipment’s signals will, as a minimum, be capable of recording to 0.3 m/s
(1.0 ft/s), or one tenth (0.1) of one μs (10-6 s).
4.1.3.3c Configuration
The first chronograph start trigger screen will be placed 48 inches from the target. The screens
will be arranged so that they define vertical planes perpendicular to the line of flight of the
munition. The screens will be securely mounted to maintain their required position and spacing
(measurement accuracy of ± 1 mm (± 0.04 in)).
4.1.3.3d Calibration
Velocity measuring instrumentation will be calibrated according to the manufacturer’s
instructions. Calibration shall be accomplished as recommended by the equipment manufacturer.
4.1.4 Range Configuration
Sections 4.1.4.1 through 4.1.4.4 are taken directly from the National Institute of Justice 0101.04
Standard 1.
4.1.4.1 Ambient Test Conditions
Unless otherwise specified, the ambient conditions of the test range shall be:
(a) Temperature: 21 °C ± 2.9 °C (70 °F ± 5 °F).
(b) Relative humidity: 50 % ± 20 %.
4.1.4.2 Range Preparation
Use a test barrel appropriate for the ammunition required, mounted in an appropriate fixture with
the barrel horizontal.
4.1.4.3 Measurement Tolerances
Range configuration measurements are to be made within a tolerance of ± 25 mm (± 1.0 in).
4.1.4.4 Instrumentation
All electronic equipment will be turned on and allowed to warm up until stability is achieved.
4.1.4.5 Test Range Configuration
Position the front face of the surrogate 15 feet from the muzzle of the test barrel at a 0 degree
angle of incidence. Position the velocity measurement instrumentation 48 inches from the muzzle
barrel.
4.2 Test Preparation
19
4.2.1 Material Conditioning
Gelatin shall be conditioned to 10 deg C for 24 hours prior to the test sequence. All other
materials, including the rounds, shall be conditioned in the test range at ambient conditions for
24 hours prior to the test sequence.
4.2.2 Gelatin Calibration
Calibration of the gelatin shall be in accordance with standard gelatin calibration procedures. A
copper plated 0.177 caliber BB projectile traveling at a velocity of 179 m/s (± 4.5 m/s) is used for
calibration. The BBs are fired from a distance of 10 feet. Due to a lack of calibration requirements
for 20% gelatin, a penetration depth of 3.81 to 7.62 cm (1.5 to 3.0 in) will be used as an
acceptable range. Calibration will be completed for each gelatin block used prior to the test
sequence.
4.2.3 Test Barrel Conditioning
A minimum of three test rounds shall be fired from the test barrel prior to the beginning of the test
sequence. The purpose of this procedure is to ensure shot location and warm the test barrel.
4.2.4 Test Duration
The duration of the test sequence for each block shall be no longer than 45 minutes. If testing has
not been completed within that time, the gelatin will be replaced with a new block and the old
block will be placed back in the environmental chamber for conditioning.
4.3 Test Sequence
Ten fair hit impacts will be completed as part of the test sequence. After completion of each test
the surrogate will be visually inspected and evaluated for penetration. The results will be
categorized in three ways: no injury, laceration, or penetration.
4.3.1 Fire Shot No. 1
Fire the first test round and record the velocity. Visually inspect the surrogate to determine the
result. Measure and record the result on the Test Data Sheet. Replace the LAL layer, and if
necessary remove the damaged section of gelatin. Proceed to the next test.
4.3.2 Fire Remaining Shots
Fire the remaining shots using the same procedure as 4.3.1 to achieve a total of ten fair hits.
5. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING
5.1 Test Documentation
5.1.1 Data Recording
The results of each test will be recorded on a Test Data Sheet.
20
5.1.2 Data Storage
All Test Data Sheets will be archived by the Ballistic Impact Research Laboratory.
5.2 Test Report
5.2.1 Requirements
A summary report will be submitted to the requestor following the test sequence. The following
items will be included:
(a) Letter stating the results of the test sequence.
(b) Video files of the tests.
(c ) Digital photographs of any failures, if applicable.
6. REFERENCES
1. NIJ 0101.04 Rev. B. Ballistic Resistance of Police Body Armor. National Institute of Testing
and Standards; 2003.
21
Ann
nex B
B.1
Procedu
ures for Recons
stituting
g Gelatin
ne
MIXIN
NG
1.
Wear the appropriate
a
saafety equipmeent (gloves, g oggles, and reespirator).
2.
Fill the gelatine melter with cold 21-24oC (70-75 oF) water usiing the quantiity listed in thhe
table below
w to prepare a batch of 4 blocks
b
for 20%
% gelatine/waater ratio.
Ingredie
ent
Water
Gelatine Powder
Propionic
c Acid
Cinnamo
on Oil
(optionall)
3.
Qty
y
110
0 kg
27.5
5 kg
60 m
ml
ml
60 m
Set the gellatine melter temperature
t
to
o 40oC (104oF
F) and start thhe mixer (slow
w speed).
NEVER HE
EAT OVER 40OC (104OF)
4.
Add slowly the powd
der gelatine to the wateer. Avoid viiolent agitatioon to prevennt
entrapment of large quaantities of air and formationn of lumps.
ALWAYS ADD
A
THE PO
OWDER GE
ELATINE TO
O THE WATE
ER.
NEVER
N
POU
UR WATER INTO GELA
ATIN.
WEAR APPROPRIIATE PROT
TECTIVE EQ
QUIPMENT.
5.
Let the mix
xer stir the in
ngredients to wet
w all particlles, about 60--120 minutes.
6.
Stop the mixer
m
when the liquid is too
o viscous.
7.
Mix manu
ually by stirrring slowly. Re-start the mixer whenn the liquid becomes lesss
viscous.
DO NOT STIR
R RAPIDLY,
Y, TO PREVE
ENT ENTRA
APMENT OF
F AIR.
8.
o cooking oill on the sides to facilitate dde-moulding.
Prepare thee moulds. Putt a fine coat of
9.
Let the gellatine melter temperature
t
stabilize
s
to 400oC (104oF) foor at least 10 minutes.
10.
Add the prropionic acid..
11.
Slowly po
our the gelatiine mixture into
i
the mouulds while beeing careful to prevent thhe
formation of air bubbless.
12.
nd time.
Identify eaach mould witth the date an
22
13.
Let stand at room temperature overnight (about 12-24 hours).
14.
Place the moulds in refrigerator at 3oC (37oF).
B.2
CONDITIONING
1.
Leave the moulds filled with gelatine in the refrigerator at 3oC (37oF) for at least
24 hours.
2.
De-mould the gelatine blocks. Pull the top of the blocks from the sides then flip the
mould upside down to release the blocks.
23
Ann
nex C
Test Data (Tufta
ane Evaluation)
TEST ID
D
1
ECTILE
PROJE
cs FB-1-FS
MK Ballistic
CONFIG
GURATION
1x Tuftane
e 400 microns / 6m
mm foam / 20% gela
atine
REFERE
ENCE VELOCITY (m
( /s) 130
SHO
OT
VELOCIT
TY
m /s
PERFORA
ATE
Y/N
MARK
REM
1
129.56
6
N
2
140.45
5
N
3
157.98
8
4
5
6
7
8
for V 50
(m /s)
L - Block
B
A
Y
130
L - Block
B
A
Y
140
Y
P - Block
B
A
N
143.53
3
Y
P - Block
B
A
Y
144
QTY PP
3
135.17
7
Y
P - Block
B
A
Y
135
ZMR
12
115.83
3
N
L - Block
B
A
N
SPREAD
23
128.44
4
Y
P - Block
B
A
Y
128
STDEV
9
120.15
5
N
L - Block
B
A
Y
120
N
N
HPP
140
3
QTY CP
RANGE: 2
M
TECH: MP
N
013/03/26
DATE: 20
N
BMF #:
N
N
24
V 50 (m /s))
AVERAGE
133
128
LCP
Y/N
G
20%
BACKING: Gelatin
Y
CALIBRATED: Yes
N
WITNESS: 0
N
OBLIQUITY: 0
N
STAND-OFF: 0.8
m
TEST ID
2
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
1x Tuftane 400 microns / 6mm foam / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
SHOT
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
134
LCP
136
1
128.85
N
L -Block A
Y
129
2
135.7
N
L -Block A
Y
136
HPP
3
149.02
Y
P - Block A
Y
149
QTY CP
136
3
4
139.47
Y
P - Block A
Y
139
QTY PP
3
5
116.36
N
L - Block B
Y
116
ZMR
0
6
135.5
Y
P - Block B
Y
136
SPREAD
33
STDEV
11
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/26
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY: .
17
N
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
STAND-OFF: 0.8
m
25
TEST ID
3
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
1x Tuftane 400 microns / 6mm foam / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
26
SHOT
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
127
LCP
125
1
124.79
Y
P - Block B
Y
125
2
121.7
N
L - Block B
Y
122
HPP
3
133.89
Y
P - Block B
Y
134
QTY CP
128
3
4
122.66
N
L - Block B
Y
123
QTY PP
3
5
128.09
N
L - Block B
Y
128
ZMR
3
SPREAD
12
STDEV
5
6
121.6
N
L - Block B
N
7
133.19
Y
P - Block B
Y
133
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/26
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY: 0
17
N
STAND-OFF: 0.8
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
m
TEST ID
4
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
1x Tuftane 300 microns / 6mm foam / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
SHOT
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
129
LCP
135
1
123.2
N
L - Block B
Y
123
2
135.11
Y
P - Block B
Y
135
HPP
3
124.07
N
L - Block B
Y
124
QTY CP
124
3
4
134.72
Y
P - Block B
Y
135
QTY PP
3
5
123.96
N
L - Block C
Y
124
ZMR
0
6
134.98
Y
P - Block C
Y
135
SPREAD
12
STDEV
6
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/26
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY: 0
17
N
STAND-OFF: 0.8
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
m
27
TEST ID
5
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
1x Tuftane 300 microns / 6mm foam / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
SHOT
28
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
125
LCP
128
1
128.14
Y
P - Block C
Y
128
2
129.92
Y
P - Block C
Y
130
HPP
3
119.53
N
L -Block C
Y
120
QTY CP
123
3
4
118.12
N
L -Block C
Y
118
QTY PP
3
5
130.16
Y
P - Block C
Y
130
ZMR
0
6
122.5
N
L -Block C
Y
123
SPREAD
12
STDEV
5
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/26
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY: 0
17
N
STAND-OFF: 0.8
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
m
TEST ID
6
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
1x Tuftane 300 microns / 6mm foam / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
SHOT
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
129
LCP
134
1
124.56
N
L - Block C
Y
125
2
134.79
Y
P - Block C
Y
135
HPP
3
123.96
N
L - Block C
Y
124
QTY CP
125
3
4
134.14
Y
P - Block C
Y
134
QTY PP
3
5
123.9
N
L - Block C
Y
124
ZMR
0
6
133.76
Y
P - Block C
Y
134
SPREAD
11
STDEV
6
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/27
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY:
17
N
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
STAND-OFF: 0.8
m
29
TEST ID
7
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
1x Tuftane 500 microns / 6mm foam / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
30
SHOT
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
137
LCP
138
1
133.57
N
L - Block D
Y
134
2
138.1
Y
P - Block D
Y
138
HPP
3
130.71
N
L - Block D
Y
131
QTY CP
134
3
4
144.94
Y
P - Block D
Y
145
QTY PP
3
5
130.59
N
L - Block D
Y
131
ZMR
0
6
144.64
Y
P - Block D
Y
145
SPREAD
14
STDEV
7
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/27
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY:
17
N
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
STAND-OFF: 0.8
m
TEST ID
8
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
1x Tuftane 500 microns / 6mm foam / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
SHOT
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
137
LCP
143
1
143.53
Y
P - Block D
Y
144
2
131.5
N
L - Block D
Y
132
HPP
3
142.88
Y
P - Block D
Y
143
QTY CP
132
3
4
129.21
N
L - Block D
Y
129
QTY PP
3
5
143.02
Y
P - Block D
Y
143
ZMR
0
6
131.69
N
L - Block D
Y
132
SPREAD
14
STDEV
7
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/27
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY:
17
N
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
STAND-OFF: 0.8
m
31
TEST ID
9
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
1x Tuftane 500 microns / 6mm foam / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
32
SHOT
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
137
LCP
144
1
143.53
Y
P - Block D
Y
144
2
124.9
N
L - Block D
Y
125
HPP
3
144.49
Y
P - Block D
Y
144
QTY CP
132
3
4
132
N
L - Block D
Y
132
QTY PP
3
5
144.49
Y
P - Block D
Y
144
ZMR
0
6
131.75
N
L - Block D
Y
132
SPREAD
20
STDEV
8
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/27
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY:
17
N
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
STAND-OFF: 0.8
m
Ann
nex D
Test Data (Foam
m Layer Remov
val)
33
TEST ID
11
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
"1"x Tuftane 400 microns / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
34
SHOT
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
130
LCP
130
1
131.36
N
Block E
Y
131
2
143.9
Y
Block E
Y
144
HPP
3
130.34
Y
Block E
Y
130
QTY CP
131
3
4
115.34
N
Block E
Y
115
QTY PP
3
5
142.73
Y
Block E
Y
143
ZMR
1
6
115.12
N
Block E
Y
115
SPREAD
29
STDEV
13
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/27
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY:
17
N
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
STAND-OFF: 0.8
m
TEST ID
12
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
"1"x Tuftane 300 microns / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
SHOT
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
1
115.83
Y
2
99.47
N
3
126.7
for V 50
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
112
LCP
116
Y/N
(m /s)
Block E
Y
116
Block E
Y
99
HPP
Y
Block E
Y
127
QTY CP
103
3
4
102.33
N
Block E
Y
102
QTY PP
3
5
124.07
Y
Block E
Y
124
ZMR
0
6
103.19
N
Block E
Y
103
SPREAD
27
STDEV
12
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/27
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY:
17
N
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
STAND-OFF: 0.8
m
35
TEST ID
13
PROJECTILE
MK Ballistics FB-1-FS
CONFIGURATION
"1"x Tuftane 500 microns / 20% gelatine
REFERENCE VELOCITY (m /s) 130
SHOT
36
VELOCITY
m /s
PERFORATE
Y/N
REMARK
for V 50
Y/N
(m /s)
V 50 (m /s)
AVERAGE
144
LCP
142
1
144.34
N
Block F
Y
144
2
153.83
Y
Block F
Y
154
HPP
3
142.3
Y
Block F
Y
142
QTY CP
144
3
4
134.21
N
Block F
Y
134
QTY PP
3
5
154.59
Y
Block F
Y
155
ZMR
2
6
134.33
N
Block F
Y
134
SPREAD
20
STDEV
9
7
N
8
N
9
N
10
N
11
N
DATE: 2013/03/27
12
N
BMF #:
13
N
14
N
15
N
WITNESS:
16
N
OBLIQUITY:
17
N
RANGE: 2
TECH: MP
BACKING: Gelatin 20%
CALIBRATED: Yes
STAND-OFF: 0.8
m