Radiographic, Petrographic, and SEM (Scanning electron microscopy) Evaluation of Ballistically Loaded Clay

摘要

Specimens of highly plastic clay were prepared at densities and water contents ranging from 106 to 128 pcf and 26 to 67 percent, respectively. These specimens were ballistically loaded by impact of a projectile traveling at both low (1660 fps) and high (3327 fps) velocities. Radiographic examination of the specimens revealed the extent and nature of disturbance including crater size and shape, depth of projectile penetration, and projectile deformation. Radiography of thin slabs and isodensitometer studies provided the basis for density measurements. The radiography was supplemented by clay-fabric studies utilizing petrography and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These techniques indicated that the impact produced negligible fabric disturbance and that some densification had occurred beneath the projectile. Techniques, procedures, and recommendations are given for studying ballistic loading of materials. (Author)