Abstract: A novel composite armor for armored vehicles which attenuates mine blast loading better than monolithic steel armor plate of equal areal density without structural fracture. The disclosed composite armor, particularly used as vehicle floor armor, is designed so as to greatly enhance not only crew survivability, by markedly reduced compressive shock effect, but also vehicular integrity. The novel composite armor in most preferred embodiments comprises layers of high density steel honeycomb, balsa wood, and ballistic-resistant nylon such as KEVLAR, sandwiched in various arrangements between outer layers of steel armor plate.

Abstract: A thermal barrier comprising a heat responsive intumescent insulating matal partially filling open cells in a layer of fire retardant honeycomb material. The thermal barrier is adhesively bonded to the inner surface of an aircraft skin panel. The intumescent material is in thermal contact with the skin and expands in response to heat conducted through the skin. The intumescent material may comprise one or more of a wide variety of matrix systems and fillers. Interior upholstery adhesively bonded to the honeycomb material completes the thermal barrier installation.