Aspects of development and research of properties of new type of armor heterogeneous materials based on aluminum and titanium, obtained using explosion welding technology

Background. Aluminum alloys have long proven their effectiveness as armor materials and have been widely adopted. Although they have not completely replaced traditional steel armor, in certain cases they have become an excellent alternative due to their unique properties, such as high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and rigidity. Currently, the most effective solutions are complex heterogeneous structures based on aluminum. However, there are several significant drawbacks associated with their production methods. These include differences in the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the base materials, interlayer corrosion, delamination, low adhesion coefficients, and others. In this context, explosive welding is considered the most promising technology for producing such materials. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the complex of physicomechanical properties of a new heterogeneous armor material based on aluminum and titanium, produced by explosive welding. Materials and methods. The primary approach to achieving the stated goal involves conducting a comprehensive study of the composite's properties: assessing the macrostructure of the material, evaluating the quantitative chemical composition of the metallic base of the composite and its heat-affected zone, and assessing bullet resistance. These studies were carried out in accordance with GOST standards using calibrated equipment by certified personnel. Results. Evaluation of the composite material's condition after explosive welding through visual and dimensional inspection, as well as analysis of its macrostructure, allowed for the selection of an optimal welding regime that ensures the highest quality of the composite without areas of delamination or incomplete bonding. Assessment of the macrostructure and quantitative chemical composition of the metallic base of the composite and its heat-affected zone provided insights into the properties and growth patterns of intermetallic phases in the weld zone. Testing the bullet resistance of the obtained composite demonstrated its compliance with the Br3 protective structure class, which, at a given thickness, is significantly higher than that of monolithic armor. Conclusions. The use of a new type of heterogeneous armor material based on aluminum and titanium, produced by explosive welding, has improved armor survivability through a novel reinforcement scheme that localizes the development of brittle cracks in the composite structure under ballistic impact. The armor material developed in this study also allows for a 20-25% reduction in the weight of armored vehicles while maintaining the required level of bullet resistance compared to monolithic aluminum armor.