Abstract. The present study investigates the complex multiscale dynamic response of particle-filled systems in an effort to link the bulk material behavior to strain-rate activated microstructures. These investigations involve multiphase systems consisting of micron-sized ceramic powders integrated within a siloxane elastomer to create flexible composites having varying inclusion properties. In particular, the effects of varying particle volume fraction, strength, and density are under investigation. The experimental investigation concerns the ballistic penetration of composite targets that are impacted by 16-grain blunt-nosed steel projectiles in the range of 200 -900 m s −1 . The results are compared to an analytical penetration model in order to shed light on the dominant penetration mechanisms and their relationship to the composite microstructure.

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