Modeling approaches for ballistic simulations of composite materials: Analytical model vs. finite element method

Development of predictive models for woven composite materials under ballistic impact is of great importance for their further applications as protective structures in aerospace and related fields. There are mainly two numerical methodologies widely used in the community: analytical models and finite element methods. As a popular method, finite element modeling has been widely investigated and applied in ballistic simulations, which can provide accurate results. However, high time consumption and complex calculation process cannot be avoided due to the complicated fiber architecture of woven composites. Alternatively analytical modelling approaches can provide a reliable prediction for ballistic simulation through a relatively portable modeling process with a high computational efficiency. However, limited attention has been paid to replicating the ballistic behavior of deformed projectiles versus woven composites, especially with a full metal jacket projectile. Therefore, in the current work the capability of different numerical modeling methods to simulate ballistic behaviors of woven composites impacted by a full metal jacket projectile is investigated. For analytical models, an innovative approach named ghost projectile method has been proposed with the focus on the effect of the deformable jacket of the projectile during impact loading. Regarding the finite element method, damage assessment by MAT_162 in Ls-dyna was used with optimized parameters. Experimental data on a Kevlar tile impacted by a full metal jacket projectile (0.357 Magnum) was used as a reference for comparison with numerical models. The capability of the two different numerical modeling methodologies in the current work was compared with respects to the ballistic curves, load history and projectile deformation.