Crack behaviour and dynamic response of alumina under impact loading.

Two different methods of impact experiments were performed against alumina targets. Firstly, the ballistic performance of a protection system consisting of alumina tiles glued on a thick steel backup was investigated at impact velocities of 1050 m/s and 1500 m/s, respectively. The thickness of the tiles was varied. Differing terminal ballistic behaviour was observed at both velocities. Secondly, an attempt is made to understand the differing results with the aid of additionally performed edge-on impact experiments against thin alumina tiles in which the fracture behaviour of this ceramic was investigated.