Shock Response of Heavily Confined Crystals

Extensive AFM observations have been made on a collection of single RDX crystals each of which had been individually enclosed in containers that limited their plastic deformation during shock. Each crystal and its container were subjected to a high amplitude shock. In several cases single RDX crystals were subjected to shocks of 

In summary, the RDX molecular and lattice structures were significantly distorted by shock induced deformation, especially on the surface of the shear bands. The amplitude of the lattice potential as measured by the AFM was most reduced in the highly deformed shear band regions. The presence of molten RDX extruded from deep within the interior of the shear bands indicates that the deformed lattice extended deep into the crystal. 

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