Development of a Low-Density Ammonium Nitrate/Fuel Oil Explosive and Modeling of Its Detonation Properties
Abstract
A low-density ammonium nitrate/fuel oil (ANFO) explosive was developed by diluting the normal density explosive with low-density polystyrene beads. Stable detonations were achieved in mixtures having densities over the range 0.5 to 0.9 gm/cc. The detonation velocity was found to decrease approximately linearly with decreasing density. The explosive was found to have a long reaction time and required large charges with propagation distances on the order of 100 to 150 cm to establish a steady-state detonation. The buildup of the detonation wave to its steady-state velocity was successfully modeled using a grain-burning reaction rate theory with a reaction time constant of 100 microsec. A mixture having a density of 0.75 gm/cc was selected as the explosive for the MINE THROW II Event and a mathematical model of its detonation properties was developed for use in the charge design calculations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- AD0787617
Entities
People
- Dana Randall
- M. W. Mckay
- S. L. Hancock