Space debris fragments impact on multi-phase fluid filled containments

The paper develops a model for evaluating results of high velocity fragment or bullet interaction with thin walled fluid-filled containments. The closed form solution formulas for determining wall perforation and dynamics of impactor deceleration after wall perforation in the fluid filled containment are provided. Fragment subsonic motion in compressible fluid was studied being the function of the depth of perforation under the water level in case the containment was partially filled with water and partially with gas having a distinct fluid–gas interface. Approximation formulas were developed making it possible to simulate resistance and drag forces being functions of governing parameters. The resistance and lift forces strongly depend on the depth of body motion under free surface. Due to that reason the response of containment on high velocity perforation depends on amount of fluid. The developed models are verified with results of experiments. The obtained solutions are applicable for evaluation of the consequences of high velocity impact of space debris elements on different space structures, and developing concepts for effective shields design. ► Closed form solution formulas for dynamics of impactor deceleration in fluid filled containment are provided. ► Resistance forces being function of depth under water surface, velocity and compressibility are developed. ► Approximation formulas are developed for resistance and lift forces being functions of governing parameters. ► Containment fragmentation scenario depends on the amount of fluid it is filled in with.