Ballistic Studies of Hybrid Material Systems for Space Structures
Abstract
Multifunctional lightweight materials and structures for space systems must endure the harsh environment of space, including hypervelocity impact by micrometeorites and orbital debris. The objective of this research program is to design hybrid material systems with increased damage resistance and higher threshold velocities for ballistic penetration, by following lessons from projectile impact and penetration mechanics, and shock wave physics. The proposed hybrid material systems will be comprised of advanced fiber composite plies of structural grade, metal alloy sheets, and flexible ceramic layers with ultra-low defect density. An integrated experimental and computational program, based on hypervelocity impact studies with laser-driven flyer plates and spherical projectiles launched through a two-stage light gas gun, is proposed to understand and quantify the shock wave and millimeter-size projectile interactions with multi-material layered media. The ultimate goal is to develop a mechanics-driven iterative approach to design hypervelocity impact resistant hybrid material systems by using proven laminate designs and novel bioinspired architectures. While the threshold velocity for ballistic penetration of the proposed hybrid material systems will be controlled by the sequence and properties of the high-performance continuous fiber composite plies and the metal and ceramic layers, the potential of the Lorentz force as the means to further increase the resistance of conductive fiber plies to projectile penetration will be investigated through fiber electrification coupled with the application of external magnetic fields. The results of this work will advance our understanding of shock wave interactions and ballistic penetration of multi-material layered media, and open new directions in the design of the next generation hypervelocity impact resistant hybrid material systems for space applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 06, 2024
- Source ID
- FA95502310428
Entities
People
- Ioannis Chasiotis
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign