A Ceramic Fracture Model for High Velocity Impact

Abstract : The objectives of this research program were to develop, implement, and demonstrate a failure model for aluminum oxide ceramic under impact loading. A comprehensive test program for Coors AD-85 was conducted. Four types of experiments provided a basis for the development of the ceramic failure model. A phenomenological damage-based failure model for compressive fracture of impacted aluminum oxide was developed with emphasis placed on predicting fragment sizes of failed ceramic. Test data suggested a fragment size correlation with loading rate. A model was developed incorporating the data and implemented in the EPIC hydrocode. Comparisons of the results of this model to penetration test were positive.