fragment originating from traditional munitions and improvised explosive devices are the major cause of military casualties in general warfare. thus, military helmets are primarily designed to provide protection to the brain from fragments, but also provide provide protection from non-ballistic impacts. a typical modern military helmet comprises a woven fabric reinforced composite shell, a non-ballistic impact liner, suspension and size adjustment systems, comfort pads and a retention system. the retention system usually incorporates a chin-cup and closure system a size adjustment systems; and a mounting system onto the helmet shell. helmet security and thus protection to the brain, relies on the strength of the retention system, which is usually made from webbing. in the UK, cotton is used rather than synthetic-polymer fiber to manufacture the webbing due to the melt hazard associated whit many man-made fibers. webbing can be defined as "a woven narrow fabric, the prime function of which is load bearing. it is generally of a coarse weave and often has multiple plies