The quasi-static/dynamic mechanical behavior of biologically inspired biomimetic (SiC_h-p + B₄C_p)/Al composites

Biomaterials that incorporate multiple synergistic structural design elements often demonstrate superior overall mechanical properties. The armadillo bone structure has attracted significant attention due to its excellent protective capabilities. To investigate the relationship between potential biomimetic elements and impact resistance, this study extracts two biomimetic factors from the armadillo bone structure: the soft-to-hard phase area ratio and the strong interface bonding between these phases. In this study, a strong interface (SiC_h-p + B₄C_p)/Al bilayer structure alongside a constrained ceramic unit (SiC_h-p + B₄C_p)/Al structure fabricated by pressure infiltration technology. Investigates the influence of biomimetic factors on the quasi-static and dynamic mechanical behavior of (SiC_h-p + B₄C_p)/Al. The results indicate that the strong interfacial bond between SiC_h-p and B₄C_p/Al significantly enhances the damage tolerance of the (SiC_h-p + B₄C_p)/Al structure. Furthermore, as the ceramic area ratio decreases from 100 % to 55 %, both the strength and toughness of the (SiC_h-p + B₄C_p)/Al bilayer structure initially increase before subsequently decreasing. The bilayer with a 90 % ceramic area ratio demonstrates a higher damage tolerance under impact loading, while the damage severity of the (SiC_h-p + B₄C_p)/Al structure significantly reduces as the ceramic ratio decreases. This bionic design strategy and preparation method may provide valuable insights for the future development of lightweight, high damage tolerance impact-resistant materials.