Abstract:This study aims to systematically investigate the penetration resistance of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) against long-rod projectile impacts and analyze the influence of compressive strength on the anti-penetration performance of UHPC, thereby providing a theoretical basis and engineering guidance for the design of UHPC protective structures. Using the calibrated K&C (Karagozian & Case) model, the process of long-rod projectiles penetrating normal concrete and UHPC targets was modeled and numerically simulated in the LS-DYNA finite element software. With the verified K&C model parameters, further numerical simulations of prototype long-rod projectiles into UHPC were carried out. Based on the numerical simulation results, the Berezan empirical formula was modified and verified, and the modified Berezan formula was compared with other commonly used empirical formulas. The results showed that: (1) the increase in compressive strength of UHPC enhanced its anti-penetration performance, but this advantage gradually weakened as compressive strength increased. (2) The reliability and accuracy of the numerical simulation results could be verified using experimental data. Additionally, the relationship between the penetration coefficient Kq and the compressive strength fc for UHPC with strength grades C100-C200 was derived, providing a valuable reference for evaluating the anti-penetration performance of UHPC with different strengths. (3) By comparing the experimental results with other empirical formulas, the accuracy of the modified Berezan formula was verified. This formula could accurately predict the penetration depth of long-rod projectiles into UHPC with strength grades C100-C200 at impact velocities of 200-700 m/s, providing useful guidance for the design of UHPC protective structures.