Numerical Prediction on the Impact Resistance of UHMWPE Flexible Film Against Hypervelocity Particles.

Abstract

Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) thin films are considered promising shielding materials against hypervelocity microparticle impacts in space environments. In this study, a finite element-smoothed particle hydrodynamics (FEM-SPH) adaptive coupling simulation method was developed to reveal the damage mechanisms of UHMWPE films impacted by alumina (Al₂O₃) particles with a diameter of 10 μm. A 100 μm thick single-layer UHMWPE film was subjected to normal impacts at velocities ranging from 1 to 30 km/s. The morphology and characteristics of craters formed on the film surface were analyzed, revealing the velocity-dependent transition from plastic deformation to complete perforation. At 10 km/s, additional oblique impact simulations at 30°, 45°, 60° and 75° were performed to assess the effect of impact angle on damage morphology. Furthermore, the damage evolution in double-layer UHMWPE films was examined under impact velocities of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 km/s, showing enhanced protective performance compared to single-layer films. Finally, the critical influence parameters for UHMWPE failure were discussed, providing criteria for evaluating the shielding limits. This work offers computational methods and predictive tools for assessing hypervelocity microparticle impact and contributes to the structural protection design of spacecraft operating in the harsh space environment.