Attempt to identify an explosive after highly confined detonation
Experiments were performed to determine whether an explosive composition can be ascertained from the direct sampling and analysis of the gases and residues left after a highly confined detonation in air. The explosives used in this study were PBX 9501, PBX 9502, and TNT, which were doped with fluorescenin dye. Charges were fired unconfined, partially confined, and fully confined in lead and in stainless steel. Residues were taken from particle filters and from a polyethylene sheet placed in the vicinity of the detonation. Residues were analyzed by Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA) and spectrophotometrically. Gases were analyzed by mass spectrometry. The results of this study show that no gases or residues that are indicative of the explosive detonated survive the explosion.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Lab., NM (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-36
- OSTI ID:
- 5882812
- Report Number(s):
- LA-8965-MS; ON: DE82002644
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
450100* -- Military Technology
Weaponry
& National Defense-- Chemical Explosions & Explosives
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
CHEMICAL EXPLOSIVES
COMBUSTION PRODUCTS
DATA
DETONATIONS
EXPERIMENTAL DATA
EXPLOSIVES
INFORMATION
NUMERICAL DATA