Theory of Detonation Waves
Abstract
The mechanism by which a stationary wave maintains itself and progresses through the explosive is investigated. Reasons are found which support the following hypothesis: The detonation wave initiates the detonation in the neighboring layer of the intact explosive by the discontinuity of material velocity which it produces. This acts like a very vehement mechanical blow (~1,500 m sec sup -1), and is probably more effective than high temperature. The velocity of the detonation wave is determined by investigating all phases of the reaction, and not only (as usually done heretofore) the completed reaction. The result shows when the so-called Chapman-Jouguet hypothesis is true, and what formulae are to be used when it is not true. Detailed computations will follow.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 04, 1942
- Accession Number
- ADB967734
Entities
People
- John Von Neuman
Organizations
- Institute for Advanced Study