Underwater explosion phenomena and shock physics

Abstract

This paper presents a brief introduction to the basic fundamentals of underwater explosions, including discussion of the features of explosive charge detonation, the formation and characterization of the associated shock wave, bulk cavitation effects, gas bubble formation and dynamics, surface effects and shock wave refraction characteristics. Illustrations of each of these fundamental aspects of underwater explosion (UNDEX) loadings are made with a set of videos from a variety of experimental testing events. In addition, analyses of associated measured loading and dynamic response data, as well as descriptions of supporting numerical simulations of these events are presented. At the conclusion of this paper, each of these UNDEX effects are tied together with a summary discussion and illustration. ©2010 Society for Experimental Mechanics Inc.