Physical Simulation of Live-Fire Detonations using Command-Detonation Fuzing

Testing of munitions for environmental impact is required in many countries as part of the life cycle assessment process. Although the post-detonation mass and composition of metallic species are known, energetics residues from the detonation process are difficult to estimate. Past methods using detonation chamber testing and modeling have been shown to be problematic, especially with newer generation energetic materials. This paper describes a method of field-testing munitions using command detonation systems for static rounds that simulate live-fire high order detonations. Research demonstrates that results from command detonated high explosive rounds are similar to residues from rounds fired onto an ice-covered impact area. The ability to substitute command detonations for live fire will enable the assessment of the environmental impact new munitions will have on training ranges prior to full development and certification. Data may also be used to assess detonation efficiencies for explosive formulations as well as for energetic components in those formulations.