Dynamic deformation behavior of tungsten-fiber/metallic–glass matrix composites

Ballistic tests were performed firing 85% fiber volume fraction tungsten/Zr41.25Ti13.75Cu12.5Ni10Be22.5 metallic-glass matrix composite rods into 4130 steel and 6061 T651 aluminum targets. The composite rods failed by localized adiabatic shear banding and exhibited self-sharpening behavior. Penetrator performance was 10–20% better than tungsten heavy alloy penetrators of comparable aspect ratio.