Effects of microstructure on detonation wavefront curvature in TATB

The impact of microstructure on detonation wavefront curvature in triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB) was investigated by comparing nano-TATB with ultra-fine TATB. By pressing these particles into pellets at nominal densities, we explored how particle size influences porosity and particle/void spacing, and subsequently, explosive performance. Utilizing a modified, small-scale, Floret test and imaging with a streak camera, we observed differences in lateral spreading behavior of the detonation wavefront. This study correlated these behaviors with microstructural characteristics, showing variations in performance from tunneling to ideal explosive behavior. Computational modelling with CTH and two different reactions models, including an Arrhenius burn model and the xHVRB model, further elucidated the relationship between microstructure and detonation characteristics. This research provides valuable insights into how to assess a formulation’s performance, highlighting the role of microstructure in the corner turning ability, growth to steady detonation, and reaction zone characteristics of insensitive explosives.