Accession Number:

ADA106434

Title:

The Giant Viper Mine Clearing Line Charge: Characterization of Energetic Materials

Descriptive Note:

Technical rept

Corporate Author:

ARMY ARMAMENT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER DOVER NJ LARGE CALIBER WEAPON SYSTEMS LAB

Personal Author(s):

• Avrami, Louis
• Kirshenbaum, M. S.

Report Date:

1981-09-01

Pagination or Media Count:

53.0

Abstract:

Mandatory safety and characterization tests have been conducted on the following four energetic materials which are integral parts of the United Kingdom UK Giant ViperMine Clearing Line Charge. The materials tested were PE-4 Explosive Booster, PE-6A1 Explosive Main Charge, EU Propellant, and S. R. 371C Pyrotechnic Composition Igniter. The tests included composition analysis, Blasting cap test, DTATGA, explosion temperature test, electrostatic sensitivity, friction sensitivity, impact sensitivity, small and large scale gap test, detonation velocity, closed bomb, and burning rate statement. In most instances, the test data agreed with the available data supplied by the UK. Most of the data show that the sensitivity of the explosive materials is between that of RDX and TNT. Therefore, it can be concluded that when handled with the proper precautions and procedures, the UK energetic materials, PE-4, PE-6A1, EU propellant, and SR 371C igniter composition, do not present any undue safety hazards. Interim qualification of these materials for US military use was, therefore, requested.

Descriptors:

• *EXPLOSIVE CHARGES
• *MINE CLEARANCE
• BURNING RATE
• HOSES
• PLASTIC BONDED EXPLOSIVES
• BOOSTERS(EXPLOSIVES)
• IGNITERS
• PYROTECHNICS
• DETONATORS
• SAFETY
• TEST METHODS
• COMPOSITION(PROPERTY)

Subject Categories:

• Pyrotechnics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE