Real-time X-ray diffraction measurement on laser shock-loaded hexanitrostilbene (HNS)

Understanding the lattice evolution of hexanitrostilbene (HNS) is crucial for ensuring its safety and reliability under shock loading. However, the lack of in situ, real-time diagnostics has limited the availability of lattice parameters for shock-loaded explosives. In this study, we utilized dynamic X-ray diffraction technology to obtain the diffraction spectrum of laser shock-loaded HNS and to determine its temporal evolution. Additionally, by improving the laser energy, we initiated HNS and obtained the diffraction spectrum of detonation products during the detonation process. The experimental results showed the presence of a diamond structure in the detonation product, suggesting the existence of either diamond or diamond-like carbon. Our research not only elucidates the crystal structure of shock-loaded HNS and its detonation products but also provides an avenue for laboratory-scale investigations into dynamically loaded explosives, which furnishing an opportunity to unveil the underlying mechanism governing explosive dynamic response behavior.