Numerical study of functionally-graded cementitious panels subjected to small projectile impact

This paper presents a numerical study of a Functionally-Graded (FG) cementitious panel subjected to high-velocity small-projectile impact with striking velocity ranging from 300 m/s to 600 m/s. This FG panel comprised three different materials, namely PE-fibrous ferrocement, calcium bauxite aggregate concrete and conventional mortar, layered at different sections to improve the target impact resistance, depending on the properties of the material needed at various stages of the projectile penetration. Good agreements in both projectile penetration depths and average inner crater diameters were observed between the numerical simulations and experimental results. Using the calibrated model, an optimization study of the FG panel (through varying target thickness) to prevent perforation of the projectile with striking velocity of 600 m/s was then illustrated. An overall target thickness of 60mm would be adequate in preventing projectile perforation.