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Data Acquisition Protocol for Determining Embedded Sensitivity Functions
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Apparatus for skidding sensitivity testing of energetic materials
A T Hewitt1, R J Lee1, S Watkins1
1Pulsed Power and Power Electronics Laboratory, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79409, USA.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|July 10, 2021
Summary
This study details a remote-operated apparatus for testing energetic material detonation sensitivity. It precisely controls impact conditions and uses infrared imaging to analyze thermal responses during impact.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Background:
- Detonation sensitivity testing is crucial for energetic materials safety.
- Existing methods may lack precise control over impact parameters.
- Understanding impact dynamics is key to predicting material behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and detail a novel remote-operated apparatus for energetic material detonation sensitivity testing.
- To enable independent control of normal force and transverse velocity during impact.
- To investigate the influence of varied impact conditions on detonation sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- A remote-operated apparatus featuring an air ram and rotating disk.
- Independent control of normal force and transverse velocity via local microcontroller and remote computer.
- High-speed strain measurements from ram head gauges for impact force calculation.
- Infrared imaging for analysis of peak thermal temperatures on explosive samples.
Main Results:
- The apparatus allows for precise and independent control of impact parameters.
- Successful automation of apparatus operation and temporal alignment.
- Acquisition of impact force data and thermal imaging of explosive samples.
- Demonstrated capability to explore a wide parameter space of impact conditions.
Conclusions:
- The developed apparatus offers a versatile platform for detonation sensitivity testing.
- Independent control of impact parameters enhances the study of energetic materials.
- Infrared thermography provides valuable data on thermal responses during impact events.
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