High-Throughput Initiation: Flyer and Thin-Film Explosive Characterization

Experiments on explosive initiation are important for generating reactive burn modeling parameters yet can be expensive and time-consuming. We present a novel framework for high-throughput testing of explosives based on the well-known microplate standard, which is ubiquitous in the biological sciences. This framework uses a laser-driven flyer similar to that used in numerous laboratories. Experiments on explosive initiation using vapor-deposited explosive samples on transparent substrates using the 96-well microplate standard are presented. These samples are characterized with optical microscopy, stylus profilometry, and scanning electron microscopy. Initiation experiments are performed in the 96-well configuration using laser-driven flyers and photonic Doppler velocimetry. Flyer characterization and shock initiation data are presented.