Shock-induced grain burning in mixtures of ammonium perchlorate and aluminum

Abstract

Experiments have been performed to investigate the initiation of reaction in explosive-metal mixtures. Mixtures of ammonium perchlorate (AP) and aluminum (Al) were packed in capsules and exposed to a short duration pressure pulse, generated by the impact of an explosive driven flyer plate. This paper describes the development of a sealed fixture for complete recovery of the unreacted solids, gaseous and solid reaction products. The results of a series of experiments are presented, which provide new evidence of complete melting and densification of AP. Based on the critical information obtained from these experiments, we propose a mechanism for the initiation of reaction of AP, and that of Al in a strongly oxidizing environment.