Transmission of detonation in open air

If other relevant factors are constant, the possibility of the transmission of detonation is determined mostly by both the sensitivity of the acceptor charge and by the initiating strength of the donor charge. 

It should be mentioned that the transmission mechanism is rather complex and somevsiiat different if compared to that of a gap test. It includes the initiation of the acceptor charge by a shock wave, by flying particles from the charge casing or from the surroundings, by hot detonation products, and the like. 

The method is based on the determination of the distance between the donor and the acceptor charge of given masses at which transmission or failure of detonation occurs. On the basis of the test data, the coefficient of the transmission of detonation is calculated. 

More detailed study of the transmission of detonation through the air also includes the determination of the functional relationship between the key parameters in the transmission of detonation the performance and the mass of the donor charge and the distance at wfiich detonation transmission occurs under defined testing conditions. The influence of other parameters such as donor shape, existence, and kind of donor confinement can also be included into the study. 

Prior to the test, the explosive charge wfrose mass is 100 g (or another mass used in normal industrial cartridges), is kept for 20-40 hours in a room at a constant temperature ranging from 20 to 25 C. Fluctuations are allowed to be within one degree. The climatisation period may vary depending on the type of explosive. 

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