Ballistic Impact on Composite Armor System
Abstract
The PIÕs long-term research goal is to develop next generation armor system for high performance ballistic threats. In pursuit of this goal, the research objectives of this proposal are (i) understanding current and proposed composite armorÕs response to ballistic impact through multiscale and finite element modeling and testing, (ii) Determination of matrix crack initiation and the corresponding impact loads; (iii) Investigation of delamination initiation and propagation; (iv) Determination of extent of delamination as a function of applied impact loads; (v) Determination of contact information associated with the delamination growth; and (vi) finding areal density and absorbed energy. The research goal of this proposal is to increase fundamental knowledge and understanding in ballistic impact on composite armor systems while pursuing new or improved composite armor systems. The PIÕs long-term educational goal is to build a platform to engage students in understanding the importance of composite armor research and inspire them to pursue a career in defense related research, which is of high importance for our national security. In pursuit of this educational goal, the proposed research will be integrated into: (1) a multi-cultural composite material design, training and mentoring program at TAMUK; (2) an outreach program geared towards K-12 students and undergraduate engineers to help students think more about defense career and research and; (3) a new graduate level course (Impact on Composite) at focused on impact on composite material. Intellectual Merit: Understanding the basics of impact and material response to impact are very important to develop next generation armor system needed to resist new ballistic threats. Due to new technology, new types of weapons are developed. Therefore, it is very important to develop new armor material for military and marine vehicles, aircrafts to resist new ballistic threat. The findings of this proposal will be used to help to develop next generation composite armor systems. Broader Impact: The proposed research on impact of armor material will increase the fundamental knowledge and performance of the ballistic performance of composite armor system from current state. It will help to design the armor system resisting high level ballistic threats. The desired new armor system will have low areal density, excellent energy absorption, high stiffness/strength to weight ratio, high residual strength, ease and low cost of fabrication and maintenance. This project will have increase the research capabilities of TAMUK, a Hispanic Serving Institution, located in South Texas, an economically disadvantaged region where many Hispanics do not have college educations. Specifically, the skills and knowledge of current and future undergraduate and graduate students in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering will be enhanced through exposure to this requested research project. Participation in this effort will enable them to obtain useful jobs in the defense industry. K-12 students will gain a greater appreciation of how better composite armor will keep our soldiers safe.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 14, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1810478
Entities
People
- Shah Alam
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Office of the Secretary of Defense
- Texas A&M University–Kingsville