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On the interaction and coalescence of spherical blast waves

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Abstract

The scaling and similarity laws concerning the propagation of isolated spherical blast waves are briefly reviewed. Both point source explosions and high pressure gas explosions are considered. Test data on blast overpressure from the interaction and coalescence of spherical blast waves emanating from explosives in the form of shaped charges of different strength placed in the vicinity of a solid propellant stack are presented. These data are discussed with regard to the scaling laws concerning the decay of blast overpressure. The results point out the possibility of detecting source explosions from far-field pressure measurements.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Subject Matter Expert, ASRC Aerospace, Kennedy Space Center, Mail Stop ASRC-5211, Merritt Island, FL, 32899, USA

    M. Kandula

  2. Launch Services Program (presently with Constellation Program), NASA Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, FL, 32899, USA

    R. Freeman

Authors
  1. M. Kandula
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  2. R. Freeman
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Correspondence to M. Kandula.

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Communicated by A. Merlen.

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Kandula, M., Freeman, R. On the interaction and coalescence of spherical blast waves. Shock Waves 18, 21–33 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00193-008-0134-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00193-008-0134-1

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