Detonation Velocity Measurements Using Rare-Earth Doped Fibres

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Engineering

Background:

• Detonation velocity is a critical parameter in explosives research.
• Accurate and high-resolution measurement techniques are essential for understanding explosive behavior.
• Existing methods may have limitations in spatial resolution or complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a simple and effective detonation velocity measurement scheme.
• To demonstrate the utility of amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) from Er-doped fibers for this purpose.
• To achieve high spatial resolution in detonation velocity measurements.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the length-dependent amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) power from off-the-shelf Er-doped fibers.
• Calibrating the measurement scheme using cutback tests for minimal data processing.
• Implementing the method in a helical geometry within an explosive cylinder test.

Main Results:

• The developed scheme provides a simple method for detonation velocity measurement.
• A spatial resolution of approximately ±2 mm was achieved in explosive cylinder tests.
• A specially made high-concentration Er/Yb-doped fiber demonstrated potential for spatial resolution approaching ±20 μm.

Conclusions:

• The ASE-based measurement scheme is a viable and simple technique for determining detonation velocity.
• The method offers high spatial resolution, particularly with optimized fiber types.
• This technique has potential applications in explosives characterization and safety.