Reaction zone measurements in high explosive detonation waves by means of shock-induced polarization

Abstract

Information on the reaction zone of a detonation wave in condensed high explosive charges can be obtained by measuring shock-induced polarization (SIP) signals in Plexiglas. The shape of the early part of the SIP signal appears to be determined mainly by the pressure history at the high explosive/Plexiglas interface. This enables the measurement of the detonation reaction time and hence the reaction zone length. Detonation waves in a number of high explosives have been investigated and the results obtained are presented in this paper. Using the same experimental technique, shock transit times can be measured in Plexiglas transducers of various thicknesses behind the high explosive charge. From these measurements not only a value for the reaction time, but also values for the Chapman-Jouguet pressure and the von Neumann spike parameters can be derived.