Utilizing Stabilized ZrO2 In Armor Applications

Abstract:
Advanced technology efforts toward s the development and processing of
light weight armor material fitted for personnel protection lead to toughned
ceramic materials. Zirconia Toughened Alumina (ZTA) (Al2O3 5 %wt. YPSZ
reinforced with 10 % wt. of SiC particulates) ceramic matrix
composite has been characterized with respect to its densification, room
temperature mechanical properties, phase composition and
microstructure.It was found that the composite could be densified at a
temperature as low as 1575 oC by liquid phase sintering. A bending
strength of 120 MPa was obtained for 75 % wt. Al2O3 , 10 % wt. ZrO2, 10
% wt. SiC, 5% wt. Y2O3 and 1% add on weight MgO composite . Lower
sintering temperature was beneficial to the retention of tetragonal ZrO 2
phase at room temperature. The results indicate that liquid phase sintering
has a potential advantage in the fabrication cost and room tem perature
mechanical properties A complete protection against 7.62x39 AP (armor
piercing projectile) with muzule velocity 750 m/sec was achieved using the
above composite with area density 48 kg/m2, this area density enable this
composite to replace armored steel in bothe personnel and light armored
vehicles.