Deflagrationo-Detonation Transition in HMX-Based Propellants.
Abstract
Research on the deflagration-to-detonation transition (DDT) is important to the Air Force because many of the energetic propellants required for present and future long-range delivery systems are explosively filled compositions that are capable of undergoing DDT. HMX-based propellant, for example, usually burns reliably in rocket motors but has detonated and destroyed the motor on several occasions. Possible steps leading to detonation in the rocket motor are fracture of propellant ahead of the flame and the subsequent formation of shock waves produced by the increased burning rate of fractured propellant. But even in this case, the mechanism of DDT and the conditions for its initiation are not adequately understood. The long-range objective of the present research program is to develop a computational capability for assessing the DDT hazard in explosively filled propellants. The program is based on the concept that a basic understanding of the physical and chemical processes involved in DDT is necessary to achieve this objective. Combined theoretical and experimental studies to determine the pressure fields behind and ahead of the flame and to establish mechanisms of DDT are required to develop such understanding. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA059660
Entities
People
- J. T. Rosenberg
- M. Cowperthwaite
Organizations
- SRI International