High strain rate mechanical properties of metals, ceramics and their composites. Stress wave propagation in multi-layer composite materials, Armor materials: testing and micro-structural analysis of penetration phenomenon, including composite, body and foam-filled armors, Modeling: Finite element analysis and smooth particle hydrodynamics; composite mechanics, deformation of light-weight energy absorbing materials, wave propagation in armor, Aluminum metal foams, aluminum hollow spheres, honeycomb structures: production and mechanical properties, Quasi-static and high strain rate test methods, Hopkinson Pressure Bar, Drop Weight test, Instron, projectile impact test, indentation test, Mechanics and microstructures of polymer, metal and ceramic matrix composites.