Standard test method for shock sensitivity of liquid monopropellants by the card-gap test
The card-gap test described is a measure of the hydrodynamic shock required to produce a stable, high-velocity detonation in a 1-in. standard steel pipe. Because of the large sample size subjected to this detonability test, the test is not to be done in the laboratory. The advantages of the card-gap test are its practical scale, reproducibility, and moderate material cost. The interpretation of results of the test is a matter of considerable judgment. While a propellant may show a low sensitivity in the card-gap test, this does not preclude the possibility of other dangers. On the other hand, a very high card-gap sensitivity does not always preclude the usability of such a liquid propellant, since it is possible that suitable engineering design can incorporate preventative measures against propagation of detonation. It is known that the degree of confinement, size, and material of the container, among other parameters, influence detonation propagation; therefore, the results of any specific test may be highly apparatus-dependent. The method gives an evaluation of the sensitivity of a high-energy liquid propellant in terms of a stack of plastic cards inserted between a sample of liquid and a standard booster charge of high explosive. The sensitivity value is taken as the number of cards required to attentuate the booster shock just enough that the liquid detonates in 50 percent of the trials. For an unknown liquid, 15 to 25 shots (requiring up to 1000 ml of liquid) may be needed to define its sensitivity value.
- OSTI ID:
- 6539734
- Journal Information:
- Annu. Book ASTM Stand.; (United States), Journal Name: Annu. Book ASTM Stand.; (United States) Vol. 25; ISSN ASTSA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Card-gap and projectile impact sensitivity measurements, a compilation
Zero gap propagation testing of propellant - number 2 fuel oil slurries. Final report Sep 91-Jan 92