Propellants Explosives Pyrotechnics, Vol.37, No.2, 223-229, 2012
A Modified Type-12 Impact Sensitivity Test Apparatus for Explosives
This investigation is to improve the Type-12 impact sensitivity test apparatus through the merging of basic split-Hopkinson pressure bar principles with existing impact sensitivity testing methods. This is accomplished mainly through the addition of resistance strain gage equipment. Upon completion of the modifications to the apparatus, incident pressure waves created by impact are recorded, as well as sharp pressure releases suspected to be caused by rapid mechanical failure of energetic material samples. To solve data acquisition issues during the initial testing attempts with the modified equipment, the Type-12 tooling is further adapted by installing a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bushing through which the striker bar is inserted. A series of sensitivity tests are then conducted using RDX to determine if this alteration affected the normal operation of the instrument. It is found that this modification to the apparatus creates a 46?% reduction in the standard deviation of H50 results in comparison to the standard tooling.