Munitions having an insensitive detonator system for initiating large failure diameter explosives
A munition according to a preferred embodiment can include a detonator system having a detonator that is selectively coupled to a microwave source that functions to selectively prime, activate, initiate, and/or sensitize an insensitive explosive material for detonation. The preferred detonator can include an explosive cavity having a barrier within which an insensitive explosive material is disposed and a waveguide coupled to the explosive cavity. The preferred system can further include a microwave source coupled to the waveguide such that microwaves enter the explosive cavity and impinge on the insensitive explosive material to sensitize the explosive material for detonation. In use the preferred embodiments permit the deployment and use of munitions that are maintained in an insensitive state until the actual time of use, thereby substantially preventing unauthorized or unintended detonation thereof.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC52-06NA25396
- Assignee:
- Los Alamos National Security, LLC (Los Alamos, NM)
- Patent Number(s):
- 9,097,503
- Application Number:
- 13/722,671
- OSTI ID:
- 1207246
- Resource Relation:
- Patent File Date: 2012 Dec 20
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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