Critical detonation diameter of industrial explosive charges: Effect of the casing

Abstract

The critical detonation diameter of industrial explosive charges is analyzed as a function of their state characteristics (composition, density, and structure) and the presence of a casing. The main reason for the increase in the critical diameter with increasing density of ammonium nitrate explosive charges is the reduction in the energy release rate in the chemical reaction zone of the detonation wave. The effect of the particle size of the components and the amount of the sensitizing component on the critical diameter of powdered and granular explosives fits into the concept of explosive combustion. An analytical formula for the critical detonation diameter of emulsion explosives is obtained which correctly describes experimental data. A possible mechanism of the effect of metal casings on the critical detonation diameter is considered for porous explosives whose detonation velocity is lower than the sound velocity in the casing.