FUNDAMENTALS OF LIQUID PROPELLANT SENSITIVITY.
Abstract
A dual mechanism is proposed for the explosive sensitivity of condensed phase CNF compounds and it was substantiated by the results of most IIT Research Institute shock-tube tests. Two paths are proposed, namely flash vaporization of reactants with fast vapor-phase reaction and surface self-heating reaction with flash vaporization of products. Relative to the latter, the former proceeds at lower external (reflected-shock) pressures and at more explosive rates of reaction. In general, most evidence suggests that the former path is promoted by physical factors (e.g., high surface area and low heat of vaporization, molecular weight, heat capacity, etc.) and the latter by chemical factors (e.g., low activation energy, catalysts, activators, sensitizers, etc.). Efforts to verify the mechanism by shock-tube tests with nitromethane, nitroglycerine, and inert compounds have been partly successful. Although inconclusive, some experimental evidence substantiates flash vaporization (with inert compounds) and pronounced variations in reaction rates with reflected shock pressure (with nitroglycerine).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0818649
Entities
People
- Allen J. Tulis
- Ted A. Erikson
Organizations
- IIT Research Institute