The state-of-the-art in manufacturing of advanced structural ceramics, particularly nonoxides, was recently assessed through visits to several companies and institutes in Europe and the U.S. Cost of production is a barrier to widespread application unless the performance is so superior that a cost/benefit analysis results in favorable economics. The costs of the elements of the production process are reviewed for specific production processes relevant to armor production. Target areas for cost reduction for ceramic armor are clear from this assessment.
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