Studying the performance of multi-layered ceramic-epoxy armor under high velocity ballistic impact with finite element method

In this paper, the behavior of multi-layered Alumina ceramic armor against high velocity projectile has been considered. Due to the conoid failure mechanism of ceramics under impact loadings, high compressive strength and erosive behavior of them against projectiles, specially ogive nosed ones, various incorporation of this material in modern armor applications is possible. Consideration of this behavior by means of different constitutive relations in detail, such as given by Johnson & Holmquist, one can design an armor with higher ballistic performance.In this study, "conoid fracture" behavior of "ceramic - elastomer" armor has been simulated in LS - Dyna with Johnson - Holmquist constitutive relation. As a result, the conoid failure of top layer ceramic causes the impact pressure to decrease in back layer, and consequently the epoxy interface transfers the pressure distribution between ceramic layers, causing growth and propagation of conoid failure thus distributing the pressure in larger area, finally resisting against projectile penetration in the armor. Application of this armor system for light-weight and heavy back layer-free purposes, would be of the highest priority against high velocity projectiles.