A combined theoretical–semiempirical penetration model of ballistic penetration of thick section composites

Abstract

A combined theoretical–semiempirical penetration model of ballistic penetration of thick section composites has been developed. The penetration model is developed by breaking down the penetration event into two major phases, that is, (i) the short-time phase I shock compression and (ii) the long-time phase II dynamic penetration. Phase I shock compression considers a one-dimensional stress wave propagation theory and the rate effects on material properties. On the other hand, the phase II dynamic penetration phase incorporates a dynamic increase factor to a semiempirical quasi-static penetration resistance curve. The combined theoretical–semiempirical penetration model is compared with finite element analyses of the same problem and good correlations are obtained.