Numerical Investigation on the Ballistic Response of Alumina/Dyneema Composite Structure Subjected to Different Target Configuration

This study investigates the ballistic performance of a ceramic composite target plate consisting of Alumina with the Dyneema fiber. The objective is to achieve a lightweight structure. Different thickness combinations of alumina/Dyneema targets were studied based on the areal density of the targets. Energy absorption criteria were used to determine the ballistic performance of the target. The ANSYS/LS-DYNA® code was used to conduct the finite-element numerical simulations. 12.7 mm projectile core and 7.62 mm projectile core was used to normally impact the target plate. The projectile impact velocities were in the range–500–887 m/s. First, the model is verified by comparing it with existing experimental studies. Subsequently, various thickness combinations of alumina with different numbers of layers of Dyneema were studied numerically to determine the effective thickness combination of the entire target. The initial kinetic energy of the target dissipated into the ceramic fracture, and the remaining energy in the deformation of the composite plate. Projectile erosion and the target’s energy absorption are the determining factors of the study.