A comparison of gelatine surrogates for wound track assessment

The use of ordnance gelatine has been widespread in the field of ballistics as a simulant for soft tissue when assessing ballistic threats. However, the traditional method of preparing ordnance gelatine is time-consuming and requires precision to ensure that the final mold meets the required specifications. Furthermore, temperature control is necessary post-production, and there are limitations on its usage duration. To address these issues, manufacturers have developed pre-mixed, gelatine-like products that are stable at room temperature and require less preparation time. Nonetheless, it is uncertain whether these new products can perform in the same manner as the gold standard of ordnance gelatine. This study used five types of blocks, including ordnance gelatine (10% and 20%), Clear Ballistics (10% and 20%) and Perma-Gel (10%) and subjected them to 9 mm, 0.380 Auto fired from a universal receiver and a 5.56 × 45 mm ammunition fired by a certified firearms instructor. Delta-V and total energy dissipation were measured after each test using data collected from ballistic chronographs placed in front of and behind each block. High-speed video was recorded, and a cut-down analysis conducted. The findings revealed variations in energy dissipation and fissure formation within the block, with greater energy based on fissure formation observed in the ordnance gelatine. Additionally, the high-speed video showed the occurrence of secondary combustions occurring in the premixed gelatines.