Abstract: A composite panel includes woven fabrics and a polymer composite. The polymer composite includes Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). The woven fabrics includes basalt fibers. The basalt fibers are mineral-additive modified. Mineral-additive modified basalt fiber based PMMA composites are used for ballistic applications. Alternatives layer of aramid fabric and mineral additive modified basalt fabric based PMMA composites are also used for UV resistant ballistic applications. Lightweight sustainable sandwich ballistic panel are achieved by a reactive thermoplastic route.

Abstract: A method of forming a weld joint is provided. A first component having a base portion and a flange extending from the base portion is provided. A second component is provided. The second component and the flange are brought into abutment and a load is applied to the flange via the second component. The flange is biased against the second component by a reaction of the first component to the load. One of the first and the second components is vibrated to form a weld joint between at least a part of the second component and at least a part of the flange.