A note on the deep penetration of projectiles into concrete

• A simple equation is presented for the deep penetration of projectiles into concrete.
• The effects of various parameters on the depth of penetration are considered.
• The present equation has a wider range of applicability.
• The mean penetration resistance of concrete with fc′=75–150MPa is almost the same.

A simple equation is presented herein to predict the deep penetration of concrete targets struck normally by projectiles within a unified framework. The effects of various parameters such as nose shape, impact velocity and unconfined compressive strength are considered in the formulation by the mean resistive pressure which consists of two parts, namely, cohesive static resistive pressure due to the elastic–plastic deformations and the dynamic resistive pressure arising from velocity effects. It is demonstrated that the present equation is in good agreement with available experimental data for the penetration of concrete targets. It is also demonstrated that the mean penetration resistance of concrete materials with unconfined compressive strengths ranging from 75 MPa to 150 MPa is almost the same which may have serious implication for the design of concrete targets against projectile penetration.