Numerical simulation of the blast-wave accelerator

A concept for propelling a projectile to hypervelociti es is described, and the feasibility is demonstrated by numerical simulations. In theory, the concept employs imploding blast waves to accelerate a projectile as it travels down a launch tube. The launch tube can be open to the atmosphere or sealed and maintained at some low pressure to minimize internal drag. The launch tube has a liner that contains a suitable explosive or energetic material. The explosive is configured with inert annular rings to prevent upstream detonation. A suitable trigger detonates each explosive ring sequentially as the projectile passes. The resulting blast wave causes an elevated pressure on the afterbody of the projectile. The acceleration continues until the projectile exits the launch tube.