The loading and performance requirements on energetic materials for Air Force applications are becoming increasingly severe. Understanding of the processing–structure–property–performance relationships, particularly at the mesoscale, is critical to enabling the design and use of energetic materials. Several research areas are required to develop this topic experimentally, theoretically, and computationally: non-shock and shock initiation and growth of reaction/detonation; microstructural quantification and analysis, particularly of damage; material design and formulation to enhance performance and insensitivity/survivability; and pressure-strain rate-temperature dependant material properties, namely of polymers, particulate composites, and energetic materials.

 

key words

High strain rate; Mechanical properties; Polymers; Survivability; Energetic materials; Mesoscale; Initiation and growth;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants