Ballistic performance of alumina/carbon fiber/aramid composite against impact of different projectile shapes

Abstract

This study explores the ballistic performance of an alumina/carbon fibre/Kevlar^Ⓡ aramid composite panel against impacts from various projectile shapes, including ogive, conical, cylindrical, hemispherical, and 5.56 mm × 45 mm NATO rounds. The aim is to analyse the influence of projectile nose shape on penetration resistance and energy absorption, critical for defence and aerospace applications. Numerical simulations carried out in LS-DYNA^Ⓡ, validated by experimental data, reveal that the ceramic layer effectively initiates projectile deceleration, while the fabric layers absorb the majority of the kinetic energy. Hemispherical projectiles exhibit minimal plastic deformation, highlighting the composite's optimal performance against this shape. In contrast, ogive projectiles demonstrate greater penetrative potential, challenging the composite's multi-layered defence. The study finds that approximately 90% of the kinetic energy is absorbed by the fabric backing, with a small portion absorbed through projectile deformation and ceramic cracking. These results underscore the importance of considering projectile deformation in simulations and suggest that the composite design is well-suited for enhancing protection against high-velocity impacts in defence and aerospace sectors.