Challenges in Modeling Buried Detonation Sources: an Experimental Study

Buried detonations can release hazardous particulates, leading to adverse impacts on the atmosphere and human well-being. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the explosion source predominantly governs the dispersion of these harmful particles in the near – field. In this paper, air blast and explosive charge mass were investigated as suitable buried detonation source characterization parameters during extensive 32 full – scale explosions of 29 to 50 kg TNT equivalent carried out by the Belgian Defense. The analysis showed that the recorded blast waves were emanating from the detonation cord and not the buried explosives. The excessive depth of burial of the explosives resulted in significant attenuation of their air blast. Given the obsolete nature of the explosives, their charge mass could not be proved to be an effective source characterization parameter. Other parameters such as topsoil maximum height and explosion plume initial height need to be investigated.