Abstract: A method of preparing a protective material is shown. In one aspect the method includes the steps of providing a powder mixture of solid particles having a size in the range of colloidal up to 100 &mgr;m. The particles have a ceramic or mineral composition. Then a liquid is provided to form an external phase of a suspension when mixed with the powder, to yield a solids volume concentrating greater then 0.5. The solid powder liquid mixture forms a thixotropic-dilatant liquid material. The rheological curve of the TDLM is adjusted to suit the application, resulting in thixotropic properties at low strain rates and dilatant properties at higher strain rates to yield a material that solidifies upon impact. The rheological curve is adjusted by one or more of additives, material composition and gravity mixing. In another aspect protective articles made from TDLM are provided.