Failure of ceramics due to impact loading

Failure of ceramics to impact loading was investigated deterministically using quasi-static finite element analysis and theory of fracture mechanics. It was demonstrated that multiple cracks were initiated, however, not all cracks would propagate. Mode II fracture dominated the fracture conoid within the contact zone while Mode I dominated outside the contact zone. From the analyses, the force versus penetration curve was derived and applied to a ballistic design program with which the ballistic performance of ceramic panels could be determined.