Prediction of Peak Overpressure of Charge Enveloped by Polymer Matrix Composite: Theoretical Modeling and Experimental Verification

Abstract

This study aimed at elucidating some characteristics of the shock wave overpressure generated by a non-traditional layered charge comprising an inner high-energy explosive and an outer polymer matrix composite. Two models for predicting the peak overpressure (Δpm) of the charge were established, namely, a model based on the initial parameters of the blast wave, and a model considering the weakening of the explosion energy through the introduction of polymer matrix cladding. The overpressure of a typical layered charge was experimentally measured for model validation. It was found that the difference between the Δpm predicted by the two models and the experimental data is less than 15.12% and 14.17%, respectively. The model that was established based on the conservation of energy law, is in best agreement with the experimental data under different cladding/charge mass ratios (αm). The model that was based on the initial parameters of the blast wave obtained a low predicted value when αm was 0.4–0.8, which is attributed to the non-uniformity of the gas-solid mixture during the explosive dispersion stage.

Design and Analysis of a New Multi-Part Composite Frangible Cover

“…Composite materials are replacing metals in aerospace applications due to good properties such as a high strength–weight ratio, good corrosion resistance, and long fatigue lives [ 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 ]. Many canister covers for missile launch systems are gradually being manufactured with composite materials.…”

“…The influence of defects on the load-bearing performance of pressure vessels provides an idea for the fabrication of weak areas of frangible covers. Composite materials are replacing metals in aerospace applications due to good properties such as a high strength-weight ratio, good corrosion resistance, and long fatigue lives [7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15]. Many canister covers for missile launch systems are gradually being manufactured with composite materials.…”