Experimental and Numerical Evaluation of a Shaped Charge Loaded With a Modified Insensitive Explosive Composition

ABSTRACT In the last decade, insensitive munitions (IMs) have attracted considerable attention because they offer a desirable combination of strong operational effectiveness and enhanced safety characteristics. This study explores the application of a DNAN‐based insensitive explosive composition (IEX) as an explosive filler for shaped charge devices (SCs). The IEX formulation, consisting of 35% 2,4‐dinitroanisole (DNAN), 45% 3‐nitro‐1,2,4‐triazol‐5‐one (NTO), and 20% trinitrohexahydrotriazine (RDX), was prepared in the lab and loaded into small‐diameter SCs at different loading densities. Additionally, the influence of explosive loading density on SC jet characteristics and penetration performance was evaluated through numerical simulations and experimental firing tests. Firing tests demonstrated a positive correlation between explosive loading density and penetration depth, achieving values of 8.9, 9.1, and 10.7 cm at corresponding densities of 1.70, 1.72, and 1.74 g/cm 3 , respectively. Furthermore, the numerical predictions of penetration depths showed good agreement with the experimental results. The shaped charge jet impact (SCJI) test was performed for the manufactured SC loaded with the IEX in accordance with STANAG 4526. The IEX‐based SC did not function effectively during the SCJI test, thereby improving the munition's safety against severe threats. These findings demonstrate the potential of IEX composition for developing safer SCs capable of achieving effective penetration into steel targets.