A Reaction Mechanism in the Shock Initiation of Detonation. A theoretical Study
Abstract
In a chain explosion, the initial chemical reaction follows one or more modes of reaction (1,2). The ensuing highly reactive transient species, commonly believed to be radicals, react with intact explosive molecules to produce more radicals which ultimately recombine and release energy sufficient to support a detonation wave. To achieve better control over the detonation process it is important to know the rate of the relatively slow, primary reaction step and the nature of the transient species produced in this step. When, in particular, a condensed explosive experiences the high dynamic pressure of a strong, initiating shock wave, it may initially decompose via a bimolecular rather than a more commonly accepted unimolecular process. The present study was undertaken to examine this question in relation to the primary reaction step in liquid methyl nitrate undergoing shock initiation of detonation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA090357
Entities
People
- Charles Wells
- Jack Alster
- James P. Ritchie
- Michael J. Dewar
- Norman Slagg
Organizations
- United States Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center