Microstructural Evaluation of a 5052 H34 Aluminum Alloy Used in Multilayered Armor

摘要

Among the aluminum alloys, the 5052 has been extensively investigated aiming at high rate deformation applications, owing to its high mechanical strength, plasticity and toughness. In this work, the microstructure and microhardness of a 5052 H34 alloy were investigated. This alloy was subjected to ballistic impact with 7.62 mm ammunition as back layer of a multilayered armor system composed of a ceramic and a composite material. An increase in the microhardness was observed. However, changes in the microstructure were not significant. The fracture aspect of the alloy in the high deformation rate was compared to that of a tensile tested sample. A stronger plastic behavior was verified in ballistic tested samples.