Thermite and intermetallic projectiles examined experimentally in air and inert gas environments

Intermetallic (aluminum and zirconium) thermite molybdenum trioxide) projectiles were launched using a high velocity impact ignition testing system. The experiments designed to simulate reactivity in (argon) low (air) altitude environments. into chamber that included steel target plate for projectile penetration before impacting rear witness plate. was semi-sealed instrumented quasi-static pressure data. results provide an understanding of energy release from the materials environmental influence on performance. transient traces insight reaction kinetics. A bifurcation rise indication shift kinetics inherent reactive material metal oxidation with environment. delayed by about 0.15 ms intermetallic relative thermite, evidence proceeded faster upon than intermetallic. two-step process (impact followed oxidation) shown produce higher conversion efficiencies composed pure fuel (i.e., aluminum) reported previously. Both showed greater 30% (for air) 50% argon), explanation underestimated efficiency losses is provided. These have implications advancing formulations ballistic applications. Structural can be used modify effective metal-containing varied atmospheric