Measurement of Particle Density During Explosive Particle Dispersal

A gauge based on laser light attenuation has been developed to determine the temporal history of particle number density during the explosive dispersal of inert particles. The optical scheme of the gauge employs narrow band pass and spatial optical filters that protect the optical sensors from ambient light and laser light scattered by particles. The gauge is used in field experiments to measure particle density at two locations in close proximity to spherical metalized explosive charges containing a packed bed of either iron, nickel, or glass particles saturated with nitromethane. The heavy iron particles penetrate the blast wave in the near field, whereas the lighter particles remain behind the blast wave. Comparisons with multiphase calculations indicate that the particle density field inferred from the light intensity signals is consistent with the computations until the point at which the combustion products containing soot arrives at the gauge, blocking the laser light.