Shock wave and detonation wave response of selected HMX based research explosives with HTPB binder systems

Abstract

The sensitivity, detonation properties, and performance of selected HMX based explosives are compared. All explosives were manufactured using a hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) binder system. IRX class explosives were manufactured to obtain explosives in which ingredients were systematically varied. The particle size range of the HMX particles was controlled by sieving. Sensitivity and performance experiments were conducted using the explosives IRX‐1, and IRX‐3A. These experiments measured: detonation pressure, detonation velocity, modified gap test shock sensitivity, and detonation wave curvature. Modified gap tests were also performed for SW‐21 and PBXN‐110. In addition, light gas gun experiments were performed in which reactive stress‐time profiles were obtained for IRX‐1 and PBXN‐110.