A Metallic Fuel-Reinforced Explosive for Improved Mechanical properties

Explosives with improved mechanical properties are needed in high performance penetrator warheads to overcome the degradation effects of the impact-generated stress waves on explosive performance. The use of the metallic fuel, either in fiber or open-cell foam form, as a reinforcement agent is proposed. Several metallic fuel elements are available in such forms with high mechiinical properties where significant reinforcement effects can occur. Effective load transfer between explosive binder and metallic fuel element to achieve this reinforcement effect will be obtained through the use of a bifunctional reactive primer. In Phase I explosive requirements will be established and a mock explosive selected and mechanically characterized. Processing studies and mechanical characterization tests will be performed on reinforced mock explosives. Explosive performance will be modeled. One real reinforced explosive will be manufactured with spall strength and explosive performance measured. TPL, with its knowledge of energetic materials and composite materials, has the capability to achieve program objectives. Its association with the Energetic Materials Research and Testing Center, New Mexico Tech provides access to explosive manufacture and testing facilities.