Cut Resistance of High-strength Yarns

The cut resistance of three high-strength yarns under tension-shear loading conditions was measured by pressing a knife blade transversely at a constant rate against a yarn gripped at its ends. The load-deflection relation and the energy required to cut through the yarn were determined for Kevlar (aramid), Spectra (polyethylene), and Zylon (polybenzobisoxazole, or PBO). The cut energy and strain to initiate cutting were highest for Zylon, least for Kevlar, and depended on the slicing angle, the sharpness of the blade, and the pre-tension in the yarn. The dependencies are explained by changes in failure mode of the fibers within the yarn. The test provides input needed for computational simulations of ballistic response of fabrics to sharp fragments and should be useful in designing slash-resistant gloves and clothing.