Optimizing the Performance of Aluminized Explosives: Laser-Based Measurements of Energy Release and Spectroscopic Diagnostics
Abstract
Commercial aluminum powders (nanometer- and micrometer-sized) have been thoroughly characterized by conventional analytical techniques to compare source and lot-to-lot variations in the material properties. The energy release rates of milligram-quantity samples ignited with a nanosecond-pulsed laser at heating rates on the order of 10^13 K/s have been investigated by measuring the laser-induced shock wave velocities and tracking the formation of aluminum monoxide on both the microsecond and millisecond timescales. By comparing the material properties and resultant energetic behavior, new insights into the optimal properties have been achieved. Preliminary results from methods we are investigating to accelerate the oxidation of aluminum in explosive formulations for enhanced detonation performance are also discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 09, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1096717
Entities
People
- Chi-chin Wu
- Frank Jr C De Lucia
- Jennifer L Gottfried
- Steven W. Dean
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory