High Explosive Simulation of a Nuclear Surface Burst. A Feasibility Study
Abstract
The feasibility of designing and constructing a high explosive source which faithfully reproduces the direct- and airblast-induced ground motions resulting from a 1-kt nuclear surface burst has been investigated. A preliminary charge design incorporating subsurface and surface high explosive charges was developed, and shown to theoretically reproduce the desired simulation conditions. The subsurface charge employs techniques first used in the MINE THROW I simulation of the JOHNIE BOY nuclear event. The surface charge consists of an elevated disc of explosive (ANFO) with a thickness varying from 1 m to 0.1 m with a total diameter of about 40 m. Detonation spacings and an initiation system for this novel charge design were investigated. A complete fieldable charge was not constructed because of difficulties in experimentally determining the detonation properties of thin sheets of ANFO. Steps leading to a future fieldable charge which simulate airblast, ground motion, and cratering effects of a 1-kt nuclear surface burst are made, based on results of this initial effort. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 30, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA088368
Entities
People
- D. L. Orphal
- J. M. Thomsen
- R. H. Franzen