EMET 562 - Explosives Engineering

3 credits (Hrs: 3 Lec.)

This course introduces explosives engineering as a separate and unique discipline and is divided into three parts. Part I reviews the chemical properties and reactions of energetic materials, including primary and secondary explosives, propellants and pyrotechnic formulations, with an emphasis on thermochemistry. Techniques for predicting and measuring the thermal yields are also examined. Part II begins with a development of an elementary theory of shockwaves and examines their propagation and interactions in gaseous and condensed phases. These concepts are applied to elucidate the detonation phenomana seen in real explosives. Part III examines initiator technology. The engineering applications of explosives, such as fragmentation, welding, and cutting are explored, where the emphasis will be influenced by student interest. The topics of safety in storage, handling and transportation, as well as appropriate classifications and regulations, will also be discussed.

Prerequisite(s): Senior or Graduate Standing and Consent. Course generally offered 2nd semester of even numbered years.