Metallic Binders for Reactive Fragment Density and Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional reactive fragments face challenges with ignition at velocities less than 4000 ft/s, penetration due to low density, and structural integrity issues, particularly with polymeric matrix materials.
Innovation Solution
A reactive fragment comprising energetic material dispersed in a metallic binder material, with the binder material formed from metals like bismuth, lead, or aluminum, and optionally reinforced with organic or inorganic additives, to enhance density and structural integrity, allowing for tailored ballistic and thermal characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If polymeric matrix materials are used in reactive fragments, then ease of manufacture is improved, but density and structural integrity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining polymeric matrix materials with metallic particles (such as aluminum, magnesium, or titanium) to create a reactive fragment composition that achieves both ease of manufacture and high density. The metallic particles are dispersed within the polymeric matrix, creating a composite structure that leverages the processing advantages of polymers while gaining the density and structural properties of metals.
2Ease of manufacture
If polymeric matrix materials are used in reactive fragments, then ease of manufacture is improved, but structural integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The composite structure of polymeric matrix with dispersed metallic particles provides both ease of manufacture and enhanced structural integrity. The metallic particles act as reinforcement within the polymeric matrix, improving the overall strength and structural integrity of the reactive fragment while maintaining the manufacturing advantages of the polymeric binder.
3Force
If reactive fragments are designed for high penetration, then penetration capability is improved, but ignition reliability at lower velocities deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by carefully controlling the particle size distribution, composition ratios, and physical state of the reactive materials to enable reliable ignition at lower impact velocities while maintaining high penetration capability. By adjusting parameters such as the size of metallic particles and the composition of the polymeric matrix, the fragment can ignite effectively at velocities below 4000 ft/s without sacrificing penetration performance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The reactive fragment achieves improved control over ballistic, thermal, and structural characteristics, enabling ignition at lower velocities, enhanced penetration, and increased survivability, with tailored energy release to maximize destructive effects on targets.
Implementation Method 1
since the above-mentioned reactive fragments are based on organic or polymeric matrix materials, which have a density less than that of most targets, i.e., steel, difficulties may arise with respect to the penetration capabilities of the fragment
Implementation Method 2
Upon impact with the target reactive fragments release additional chemical or thermal energy thereby enhancing damage
Implementation Method 3
the released chemical energy can be transferred to the surroundings thermally through radiant, conductive, and/or convective heat transfer
Implementation Method 4
The reactive fragment employs both kinetic energy transfer of the accelerated fragment into the target as well as the release chemical energy stored by the fragment
Implementation Method 5
the released chemical energy can be transferred to the surroundings thermally through radiant, conductive, and/or convective heat transfer
Data Source
AI summary
A munition is described including a reactive fragment having an energetic material dispersed in a metallic binder material. A method is also described including forming a energetic material; combining the energetic material with a metallic binder material to form a mixture; and shaping the mixture to form a reactive fragment. The munition may be in the form of a warhead, and the reactive fragment may be contained within a casing of the warhead.