The manuscript examines the quasi-static and high strain rate failure behavior of a polycrystalline ultra-high temperature ceramic, zirconium diboride–silicon carbide (ZrB₂–SiC), processed through spark plasma sintering and confined using thermally shrink-fit metal sleeves.

The subsequent plots revealed an increase in failure strength under low to moderate confinement and the possibility of macroscale plastic dislocation activity in the bulk ceramic when sufficient pressure is applied.

In addition, the intact strength of ZrB₂–SiC was determined utilizing Johnson and Holmquist (JH-2) model, and the relevant parameters are determined for high velocity impact or shock simulations.

The model constants also revealed that pressure alone plays a deterministic role in defining the constitutive response of all brittle ceramics including ZrB₂–SiC.