Experimental investigation of the roughness, hardness, corrosion, and penetration resistance of metal composite made by iron and copper

The materials used in defense structures, in addition to providing the conventional criteria related to structural performance and durability against harmful environmental factors, should show the necessary resistance against other threats such as dynamic impact and bullet penetration. This article deals with the well-rounded experimental investigation of the roughness, hardness, corrosion and resistance to penetration of the metal composite made by a simple sand casting method using two elements, iron and copper. In the first stage, three composite samples were produced in the form of plates with a thickness of 18 mm and dimensions of 70 × 80 mm. Then, they were subjected to a Vickers hardness test, roughness test, corrosion Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) test and penetrate test caused by projectiles 7.62 × 39 mm fired from the AK-47 weapon. Then they were subjected to a detailed examination with a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The results of the examination show that the metal composites produced by these two elements, with Vickers hardness number of 100 MPA and roughness number of 13.9 better performance than masonry metrials such as concrete, also coating iron with copper increases 14 times resistance to corrosion. In addition, it shows proper resistance against penetration and damage to the surface due to bullet impact. These results show that these metal composites can be used in defense structures with lower cost of construction and better performance.