Pulsed-power research at Loughborough University

Pulsed-power research at Loughborough University began more than 15 years ago, with the production and measurement of blast waves from an exploding wire and their use in impact studies of materials. More recently, the major facilities needed for plasma and explosive device experiments have been assembled both in the laboratory and at a remote firing site. The programme includes the production of electrical pulses by explosive means, the techniques used to condition and sharpen the output energy profile, the accurate performance prediction of flux-compression generator systems, the empirical modelling of foil fuses, mesh-initiated detonation and electromagnetic launchers. The paper presents a review of some of the activities including MHD research, flux compressors and high strain rate measurements.