Research on the ballistic impact response of a corrugated composite armor

Abstract

This study investigates the ballistic impact response of a ceramic/metal/ UHMWPE corrugated composite armor through experiments and numerical simulations, comparing its performance with a planar design. The residual velocity and ballistic trajectory of projectiles, as well as the failure modes and the energy absorption of structures, were systematically analyzed. The effects of impact position on ballistic resistance were examined, and a theoretical model for the ballistic limit of the corrugated armor, considering obliquity, was developed and validated. The results show that the corrugated structure outperforms planar armor in energy absorption and ballistic resistance, with the crest position offering the highest ballistic limit, followed by the slope and trough. The deflection of the projectile at the slope position increases penetration time, especially at lower velocities, and the inclusion of UHMWPE fiber laminates enhances energy absorption through fiber tensile failure. These results highlight the effectiveness of corrugated designs for improving the ballistic resistance of multi-component composite armors.