High velocity ballistic performance of ZrSiO4 reinforced aluminum alloy matrix composites

Abstract

Multi-layered composite structures are a suitable strategy for achieving superior ballistic performance as compared to the monolithic materials. Typically, in the multi-layered structures, high hardness and strength material is configured as a front face and highly deformable material in the back layers. In the present study, ceramic particles ZrSiO4 reinforced Al-Si12Cu (LM13) aluminum alloy composites are investigated for ballistic performance. The 15 wt% ZrSiO4 particles of different sizes 20, 60 and 120 µm are incorporated in the aluminum alloy matrix via stir casting technique. Ballistic impact tests were performed by firing 0.308 calibers bullets with AK-47 rifle from a distance of 10 m. The deformations of the composite plates are predicted by correlating the decrease in the final velocity of the bullet after impact. It was found that composite reinforced with finer size particles offered higher resistance to bullet penetration as compared to the coarse size reinforced particles. The residual velocity as compared to the striking velocity was reduced to ∼34%, ∼29% and ∼22% for composite reinforced with ZrSiO4 particles of 20, 60 and 120 µm, respectively. At exit face the spall diameter is 34, 30 and 17 mm for composite of particle size 20, 60 and 120 µm, respectively. Microstructural analysis of the affected zones is also performed to explore the behavior of composite under the high impact loading.