Imaging and Spectral Measurements of Explosions

Overview

The document titled "High-Speed Laser Imaging, Emission and Temperature Measurements of Explosions" presents research conducted by Thuvan Piehler and colleagues, focusing on advanced measurement techniques for analyzing explosive events. This report, a reprint from the 2006 Insensitive Munitions & Energetic Materials Technology Symposium, details the methodologies and findings related to high-speed imaging, optical temperature measurements, and emission analysis of combustion products from explosives.

The study employs a high-speed camera synchronized with a Cu-vapor laser to capture high-brightness images of fireballs produced during explosive detonations. The imaging system operates at a wavelength of 510 nm and a frequency of 12 kHz, allowing for detailed temporal resolution of the explosive events. The report emphasizes the importance of capturing these images to understand the dynamics of explosions better.

In addition to imaging, the researchers utilized three-color pyrometry to measure the temperature of the fireballs generated by the explosions. This technique involves using multiple narrow bandpass filters and photodiode detectors to accurately assess the thermal characteristics of the fireball, providing insights into the heat generated during the detonation process.

The document also discusses the use of a grating-based modular spectrograph for emission measurements in the visible spectrum. This spectrograph is crucial for analyzing the light emitted during explosions, which can reveal information about the chemical composition and behavior of the combustion products.

The findings of this research contribute significantly to the field of explosive materials and safety, offering valuable data that can enhance the understanding of explosive behavior and improve safety protocols. The report is unclassified and approved for public release, ensuring that the knowledge gained can be disseminated widely for further research and application.

Overall, the document highlights the innovative approaches taken by the Army Research Laboratory in studying explosive phenomena, showcasing the integration of high-speed imaging and optical measurement techniques to advance the understanding of explosive dynamics. The research not only aids in the development of safer munitions but also enhances the scientific community's knowledge of energetic materials.