University seminar "Horizons of Science Disciplines", October 15, 2026
The Center for Advanced Studies at Warsaw University of Technology invites you to the university-wide scientific seminar Horizons of Scientific Disciplines .
The seminar aims to present the achievements of teams representing specific scientific disciplines at Warsaw University of Technology. The planned meeting, on mechanical engineering entitled " Ceramic Materials – From Biocomposites to Ballistic Shields ," will feature lectures by Dr. Martyna STRÄ„G and Dr. Marcin CEGÅA from the Military Institute of Armament Technology, moderated by Prof. Mariusz Magier (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology).
Abstracts:
Biocomposite mollusc shells as an inspiration for the design of modern armor ,
Dr. Eng. Martyna STRÄ„G (pdf, 27.81 kB)
Natural biocomposites are currently attracting increasing interest due to their ability to create structures with a unique hierarchical organization, an optimized result of evolutionary processes. One of the most intensively studied groups is mollusk shells. These shells are ordered, complex structures consisting of approximately 95% hard mineral calcium carbonate embedded in a soft organic matrix. Their structure is not only lightweight but also characterized by high compressive strength, high hardness, and fracture toughness.
This paper presents the characteristics of the microstructure and crystallographic orientation, conducted in parallel with studies of the mechanical properties of selected species of mollusks. The studies confirmed that, thanks to its strong anisotropy and hierarchical structure, the selected shell layer is capable of providing effective protection against damage. It was also demonstrated that the mineral-organic system has the ability to arrest crack propagation. The potential applications of shell-formed structures in the design of ballistic shields were also presented.
Special ceramic-based ballistic shields ,
Dr. Eng. Marcin CEGÅA (pdf, 27.30 kB)
Special ceramics are one of the basic materials used in multi-layer ballistic protection. They are used in both personal protective equipment and combat vehicle armor. Due to their mechanical properties, particularly their high hardness, ceramics are a key element in shields protecting against armor-piercing projectiles. However, due to the way they are damaged by brittle fracture, they must be used in conjunction with other metallic or composite materials. This paper presents the basic types of ballistic protection and their design philosophies. The role of ceramics and other materials constituting multi-layer ballistic protection in stopping armor-piercing projectiles is emphasized. Selected issues related to research standards, particularly STANAG 4569, are discussed. Research on ballistic protection is illustrated by examples from projects conducted at the Military Institute of Armament Technology concerning personal protection and vehicle armor.
The online meeting will take place on October 15, 2026 at 4:15 p.m. on the TEAMS platform .
Link to register for the meeting: seminar .
If you have any additional questions, please contact us at hdn.csz[at]pw.edu.pl
We invite all interested parties to participate in the seminar.
Doctoral students wishing to complete the seminar at the WUT Doctoral School are kindly requested to register their participation (name, surname, student ID number) at hdn.csz[at]pw.edu.pl; registration will be verified against the attendance list at the event.
