Natural SciencesPhysicsChemical KineticsCombustionTheoretical PhysicsDetonation TheoryShock WavesChapman-jouguet DetonationDetonationDetonation InitiationDetonation PropagationDetonation VelocityDetonation Wave PropagationDetonation WavesVelocity
The study investigates how a stationary detonation wave sustains itself and propagates through explosive material, determining its velocity by analyzing all reaction phases rather than only the completed reaction. Detonation wave velocity is calculated by examining every phase of the reaction, not just the final stage. The authors show that the wave initiates neighboring layers through a sharp material‑velocity discontinuity, acting like a ~1500 m s⁻¹ mechanical blow more effective than heat, and that the Chapman‑Jouguet hypothesis holds under specific conditions with distinct formulae when it does not. Detailed computations will follow.
Abstract : The mechanism by which a stationary wave maintains itself and progresses through the explosive is investigated. Reasons are found which support the following hypothesis: The detonation wave initiates the detonation in the neighboring layer of the intact explosive by the discontinuity of material velocity which it produces. This acts like a very vehement mechanical blow (1,500 m sec sup -1), and is probably more effective than high temperature. The velocity of the detonation wave is determined by investigating all phases of the reaction, and not only (as usually done heretofore) the completed reaction. The result shows when the so-called Chapman-Jouguet hypothesis is true, and what formulae are to be used when it is not true. Detailed computations will follow.