A Theoretical Study of the Propagation of a Mass Detonation
Abstract
The mass detonation problem was formulated as a dynamic probabilistic process, equivalent to a specialized bond problem in percolation theory. Percolation theory predicts that there exists a critical probability, above which there is a nonzero probability that an explosion will propagate throughout the munitions array. The critical probabilities for the generalized bond and site problems provide lower and upper bounds, respectively, for the critical probability for mass detonation. A Monte Carlo model was developed and exercised for two and three dimensional munitions arrays. The effects of synergy resulting from simultaneous detonation of nearest neighbors was examined, and anisotropies resulting from heightened or reduced propagation probabilities in one direction was addressed. It was shown that significant reductions in mass detonability can be obtained by exploiting anisotropic effects resulting from munition design.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA153655
Entities
People
- Abdul R. Kiwan
- Phillip M. Howe
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory