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

• Published in: Energetic materials frontiers 2024-09, Vol.5 (3), p.224-231
• Main Authors: Xi, Tao, Zhou, Wei-min, Xin, Jian-ting, Zhang, Huan, Chu, Gen-bai, Shui, Min, Zhao, Yong-qiang, Zhang, Hao-bin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Detonation products; Dynamic X-ray diffraction; HNS; Laser shock
• ISSN: 2666-6472; 2666-6472
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enmf.2024.04.002

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. Hexanitrostilbene (HNS) is a widely used secondary explosive in initiator and booster applications. When subjected to dynamic loading, the initial reaction behavior of HNS within the first few nanoseconds is of interest. Computational tools can provide predictions, but observing the lattice evolution and phase change of shock-loaded explosive on a nanosecond timescale is challenging. To address this, we conducted real-time, in situ X-ray diffraction measurements on laser shock-loaded HNS using the Shenguang-III (SGIII) prototype laser facility. By varying the laser energy, we obtained the in situ X-ray diffraction information on shock-loaded HNS and its detonation products. Our experimental results demonstrate that the high-power laser experimental platform is a valuable tool for studying explosive. [Display omitted] •The dynamic response behavior of HNS has been explored, providing a chance for laboratory-scale studies of explosives.•A real-time, in situ X-ray diffraction method has been employed to investigate the crystal structure of shock-loaded HNS.•The phase structure of the detonation solid products of HNS has been studied, and the diamond structure has been confirmed.