Explosive compaction in materials science

High pressure generated by detonating explosives can be used for explosive compaction of powdered substances. The special feature of explosive compaction compared to conventional methods of consolidation of matter is a shock wave entering the powder. The shock wave configuration in a cylindrical sample is decisive for uniform consolidation. In cases where the powder- Hugoniot is known computer simulation can be applied to determine the shock front configuration. Hot explosive compaction is a special means to obtain high strength materials. Examples for materials under investigation are superalloys and ceramics for high temperature application, high-temperature superconductors, nanocrystalline and amorphous materials, MMCs (metal matrix composites) and others. An area of great interest is the synthesis of materials from its elements. This is shown in the case of intermetallics, a new candidate for high temperature applications. Special emphasis is placed on high pressure phases like cBN and diamond. (author)