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Standard test method for critical diameter and detonation velocity of liquid monopropellants

Journal Article · · Annu. Book ASTM Stand.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6796237

This method covers the evaluation of two properties of a high-energy liquid propellant. In one form, the critical internal diameter is determined in a given type of metal or plastic tubing below which propagation of stable high-velocity detonation will not take place. In the alternative form, which uses more material, detonation rate is concurrently measured. The composite donor of either size may be used in most instances to initiate detonation in experimental trap designs. The three determinations, namely: minimum diameter for propagation, detonation trap requirements, and detonation velocity, have much in common; all presuppose the initiation of a stable detonation in a liquid contained in a tube. The key to the present test method is the use of a donor stage consisting of the material under test. Although a compound initiator comprised of a blasting cap and high-explosive booster is employed, the true donor is a length of the subject material sufficient to assure establishment of a stable detonation characteristic of the test medium ahead of the first test section or measuring station. Questions of wall and boundary discontinuity are thereby eliminated along with the accompanying complications of impedance mismatch and perturbation of the shock front. Various diameters of tubing are filled with propellant, and an attempt is made to cause the propellant to detonate by use of a secondary detonating medium (the donor).

OSTI ID:
6796237
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

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