Mechanics and Ballistics

Abstract

This Project conducts basic research in materials and ballistic science to create higher performing, lighter weight, lower cost materials and processes, discover new ways to store and release chemical energy from novel energetic materials, explore fundamental chemistry and physics controlling the launch and flight of gun- launched projectiles and missiles, and understand the interaction of these weapons with armored targets, including the high deformation rate behavior of materials and the mechanics of threat impact and penetration of armored targets. Research involves the study of new experimental capabilities to measure, characterize, and visualize complex phenomena with high temporal and spatial resolutions as well as the development of state-of-the-art computational models that provide predictive capabilities based on at-scale and cross-scale numerical frameworks that capture the relevant physical phenomena. Research in atmospheric science seeks an in-depth understanding of the complex atmospheric boundary layer associated with high-resolution meteorology, the transport, dispersion, optical properties, and characterization of chemical and biological aerosols, the propagation of full-spectrum electro-magnetic and acoustic energy and physics-based multi-scale models for electronic, optical, mechanical, and chemical materials. Efforts seek to explore methodologies and computational capabilities for the quantification of uncertainty in predictive modeling enabling risk-informed decision analysis multi-scale material models and environmental impacts on complex Army systems (manned and unmanned). This research also conducts research in chemistry and physics controlling ballistic propulsion and launch; creating aerodynamic forces on flight bodies to permit radical maneuver at high speeds, and high altitude glide and flight maneuver for increased range of gun launched projectiles. This research results in knowledge products that lead to new materials for armor and armaments, disruptive explosives and propellants, more accurate and non-lethal (NL)/lethal projectiles and missiles, omnisonic maneuver of projectiles, and advanced armors for increased survivability of Army combat systems. This research also funds efforts in the characterization of chemical and biochemical phenomena occurring at or near solid surfaces and interfaces; the interactions between chemical reactions and transport processes on surfaces; theory and modeling of processes at complex surfaces; and the synthesis and characterization of catalysts that function at the nanoscale. Investment in basic research centered on the surface science disciplines will enable growth of a knowledge base that will result in improved understanding of the interactions of complex materials in real world environments. Work in this Project supports key Army needs and provides the technical underpinnings for several PEs to include PE 0602145A (Next Generation Combat Vehicle Technology); PE 0602146A (Networks C3I Technology); PE 0602147A (Long Range Precision Fires Technology); PE 0602141A (Lethality Technology), and PE 0602143A (Soldier Lethality Technology). The cited work is consistent with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering priority focus areas and the Army Modernization Strategy.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2023
• Source ID: AA7_0601102A_1_2040_PB_2023

Tags

Readers

• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
• Military Science and Technology Research and Modernization.
• ballistics.

Technology Areas

• Autonomy
• Microelectronics