**4. Ceramic-based ballistic materials-processing and equipment**

The physical and mechanical properties of ceramic-based ballistic materials largely depend on the processing methods and tooling. The density, high-strength, and

*Ballistic Composites, the Present and the Future DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.102524*

high-modulus properties are influenced by the processing method, and the processing method is influenced by a number of factors. The factors that determine the quality of the material are the size and shape of raw materials, availability of tooling for that particular size and shape, compatibility of different raw materials and adhesives, resin content, economical parameters (cost of raw materials and labor cost). The secondary factor on making the selection in the manufacturing process depends on the main target which protects as well. This factor depends on the ballistic threat, the maximum acceptable weight for personnel and/or vehicles, structural and impact requirements, exposure to chemicals, fuels and lubricants, moisture, and other threats.

The most widespread processes for the production of ballistic materials based on ceramics are a hand-layup method, vacuum bagging, vacuum and oven processing, compression molding, and autoclave method.
