Hierarchical Diamond-Based Ceramic Composites

This research developed and utilized advanced processing, modeling, and micromechanical tools to discover and demonstrate hierarchically structured diamond-based composites with exceptional mechanical and ballistic behavior. Understanding how nanoscale and mesoscale microstructural features in diamond–silicon carbide (SiC) composites influenced the physics of failure was critical in uncovering ways to improve performance for soldier protection and discover potential defeat mechanisms.