Introducing Work Package 7: Assessment and Validation Study

We are excited to introduce WP7, a pivotal work package within the ECOBALLIFE project. WP7 focuses on evaluating and validating new materials and components for personal and platform protection systems. Our goals include controlling materials during manufacturing, assessing the impact of ageing on protection systems, and developing new solutions to counter emerging threats. 🛡️

Current Progress and Key Tasks

WP7 is advancing rapidly with several key tasks:

• Task 7.1: We reviewed the state of the art of current characterisation technologies and successfully completed this task.
• Task 7.2: We are now examining the capability of Non-Destructive Tests (NDT) techniques and smart solutions for personal and platform protection systems. This task focuses on quality control of new products and Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of used systems. Specifically, we compare new, artificially aged, and shot samples to identify suitable NDT techniques for quality control, focusing on different materials and layers.
• Task 7.3: We aim to structure and evaluate durability tests for efficient maintenance of protection systems. This task includes artificial ageing, mechanical tests, and complementary physico-chemical characterisation to develop a maintenance approach. Additionally, we assess new products and focus on operational ageing through environmental testing and purposeful degradations.
• Task 7.4: We conduct two types of testing: tests to feed numerical models used in Eco-design and Simulation, including dynamic stress-strain tests and ballistics tests, and performance tests against new threats, such as microwave and high-power laser beams for platforms and blast overpressure for soldiers. Furthermore, we develop testing protocols for evaluating ballistic helmets, vests, and protective coatings.

Watch our latest video to see WP7 in action and learn more about our innovative approaches and ongoing tasks.

Leadership and Expertise

Marie-Bénedicte Jacques from CEA leads WP7. As a research engineer and project manager at CEA, she brings a wealth of expertise in materials science and engineering, which are essential for the ECOBALLIFE project. Her leadership and experience are invaluable to the success of this work package.

Collaboration and Innovation

Collaborating with our partners, we drive innovation to safeguard against both current and emerging threats, all while prioritizing sustainability. ♻️🔄

Stay tuned for more updates on our progress!

Our Esteemed Partners

We carry out this work in collaboration with our esteemed partners: CEA, FYC, AITEX, TECNALIA Research & Innovation, Petroceramics, VTT, Leonardo, BOGGES, spol. s r.o., CITEVE, Miilux Oy, and Exote Oy. These experts bring a wealth of experience in materials science, engineering, and project management, contributing significantly to numerous projects.