Low velocity drop weight impact behaviour of Al2O3-Ni-ZrO2 and Al2O3-Ni-Cr2O3 ceramic composites

Particulate Al2O3 matrix nanocomposites containing 1 vol.%Ni were prepared by the heterogeneous precipitation method and addition of 5 vol.% ZrO2 (ANZ) or Cr2O3 (ANC). The samples subjected to low energy drop weight impact tests compare behaviour composites under investigate damage mechanisms. pure Al2O3, Al2O3/Ni, Al2O3/ZrO2 Al2O3/Cr2O3 compositions with same additive ratios also produced make comparison systematically. Also, Vickers hardness measurements carried out a significant increase in was attained for both ANZ ANC composites. average value around 24.8?1.0GPa measured which means ~15% improvement compared Al2O3. Between all compositions, maximum force (Fmax) obtained (for 12 J level Fmax = 26617N) according test results. Tensile radial crack network formation, cone fracture crushing structure observed as mechanisms compositions. volume conical frustum evaluated each composition effect microstructure on possible ballistic performance discussed.