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Updated: Mar 24, 2026

Research and Development of High-performance Explosives
Published on: February 20, 2016
Research and Development of High-performance Explosives.
Rodger Cornell1, Erik Wrobel1, Paul E Anderson2
1Detonation Physics Branch, US Army ARDEC, Picatinny Arsenal.
This study introduces photo-Doppler velocimetry (PDV) for precise detonation measurement in high explosives. It highlights how early aluminum reaction in formulations significantly impacts detonation velocity and pressure.
Area of Science:
- Military Applications
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Developmental testing of high explosives requires rigorous safety and performance evaluation.
- Traditional methods for measuring detonation parameters have limitations in precision and early-time evolution characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and validate photo-Doppler velocimetry (PDV) as a precise method for measuring detonation velocity and pressure.
- To investigate the influence of early-reacting aluminum in explosive formulations on detonation characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Small-scale formulation and sensitivity testing (thermal, impact, friction).
- Detonation performance testing using photo-Doppler velocimetry (PDV).
- Comparison of PDV measurements with traditional fiber-optic detonation velocity and plate-dent calculations.
Main Results:
- PDV provides high-precision measurements of early-time detonation evolution.
- Explosive formulations with early-reacting aluminum exhibit altered detonation velocities and pressures.
- Early aluminum reaction with oxygen in expanding products is a key factor influencing detonation performance.
Conclusions:
- Photo-Doppler velocimetry (PDV) is a valuable advancement for characterizing high explosive detonations.
- The early reaction of aluminum significantly modifies detonation dynamics, offering opportunities for tailored explosive performance.
- Understanding aluminum's role is crucial for developing next-generation military explosives.

