INFLUENCE OF SHOCKWAVE PROFILE ON EJECTA

Abstract

We investigate the relation between shock‐pulse shape and the amount of micron‐scale fragments ejected upon shock release at the metal/vacuum interface of shocked Sn targets. These micron‐scale particles are commonly referred to as ejecta. Two shock‐pulse shapes are considered: a supported shock created by impacting a Sn target with a sabot that was accelerated using a powder gun; and an unsupported or Taylor Shockwave, created by detonation of high explosive that was press‐fit to the front‐side of the Sn target. Ejecta production at the back‐side or free‐surface of the Sn coupons were characterized through use of piezoelectric pins, Asay foils, optical shadowgraphy, and x‐ray attenuation.