A SIMPLE PRE-BALLISTICS EVALUATION METHODOLOGY FOR CERAMICS

摘要

A simple, pre-ballistics evaluation methodology for ranking the dwell potential of ceramics is proposed. The methodology is based upon standardized mechanical property measurement techniques and Hertzian indentation phenomenology, which is used to define a parameter that can be used for comparison purposes. This parameter is based upon the notion that hardness represents ballistic performance potential, while toughness represents whether or not this potential can be realized. This parameter is determined for a number of ceramics of interest, based upon mechanical property measurements. While comparison with published data shows promise for the proposed methodology, its short-comings include that it is qualitative, dependent upon the indenter radius, and relevant to only dwell. A more useful ranking methodology would be based upon quantitative predictions of the dwell/penetration transition velocity. This requires a physically-based approach which is being investigated. The basis for the current approach is presented and applied to ceramics of interest including several hot-pressed and sintered silicon carbides.