Investigation of the reaction of selected pyrotechnic and explosive mixtures to bullet impact

Abstract. The scope of this research was an experimental analysis of the reaction of selected pyrotechnic and explosive mixtures to an impact caused by a 5.56x45 mm bullet. The research stemed from the need to support law enforcement agencies and military units involved in counterterrorism and explosive ordnance disposal by providing empirical data on the behavior of energetic mixtures under the influence of a kinetic impulse. Multiple tests were conducted under controlled conditions, ensuring the repeatability of projectile kinetic energy and shot geometry. There were about 25 mixtures of varying composition and energetic properties were placed in plastic containers that constituted a simplified model of the casing used in transport or storage of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Then, samples of each mixture were shot three times, and reaction was recorded on cameras. The observed effects included: no visible reaction, partial ignition, deflagration, or detonation, depending on the mixture type. The obtained results enabled a preliminary classification of the tested mixtures in terms of their mechanical sensitivity and allowed for improvements in tactics and safety procedures.