Remarks on Certain Aspects of Solid Explosive Detonation Via Small Projectile Impact
Abstract
Criteria for high explosive detonation via projectile impact have important lethality, survivability and safety implications. Five sets of classic projectile impact induced detonation data were reexamined and reevaluated with respect to Moulard's critical area concept. Some empirical relations were found which are simple functions of the critical area or the projectile cross-section area and known impact shock variables. These relations enhance and/or supplement current empirical detonation prediction methodology, and could lead to a better understanding of the underlying physical phenomena. Furthermore, results from this investigation imply that a minimum (or critical) area dependent shock energy input rate (or power) is necessary for detonation initiation. This minimum amount of power must be sustained for a minimum length of time. This result for solid explosives in analogous to a power input criterion for gaseous explosive detonation which is well documented in the technical literature. It is empirically shown that the area dependent energy rate (power) is inversely proportional to the shock velocity in the explosive. For true one-dimensional situations, the area dependent power requirement is indistinguishable from the constant energy (per unit area) criteria. An important spinoff from this investigation is the formulation of a scheme to predict the minimum shock pressure required to detonate an explosive. This scheme is based on E. R. Fitzgerald's crystal lattice fracture/disintegration criteria. Some pertinent results are given in this report, but the concept and analysis are being documented in a separate publication. Author.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA210648
Entities
People
- Carl L. Adams
- James P. Billingsley
Organizations
- United States Army Aviation and Missile Command