Investigations and applications of detonation propagation in energetic materials

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Detonations in combustible gases, solid explosives, and energetic liquids give rise to very complicated behavior occurring at extreme temperatures and pressures. The process by which a detonation sweeps through these reactive materials (detonation waves) will be studied in this program. While the velocity of detonation waves can be accurately calculated in advance with current theories, the dynamics of these waves (how they initiate, when they fail, how they respond to changes in geometry, etc.) is difficult to predict. The approach taken in this program is to study simpler, model systems both in the lab and in computer-based models. The insight obtained may permit more accurate safety assessments of explosives. Detonation waves will also be examined for applications in aerospace propulsion and as a means to launch projectiles to very high velocities for testing purposes. Specifically, the concept of using a stabilized detonation wave in gas as the combustor for a high-speed engine will be explored. In addition, the use of solid or liquid detonations to pinch a tube shut in order to drive a projectile to ultrahigh velocities will be attempted, which could in turn be used to simulate orbital debris impact on spacecraft structures in the laboratory.