Thermal Radiation From A Nuclear Weapon Burst

Item

Title
Thermal Radiation From A Nuclear Weapon Burst
Report Number
CONF-8305107, p. 211-216
Creator
Small, R. D.
Brode, H. L.
Corporate Author
Pacific-Sierra Research Corporation
Laboratory
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Date
1983
Date Issued
1983-07
Extent
6
Identifier
ADA132780
Format
1 online resource (6 pages : ill.)
Abstract
The different methods and correlations used to calculate the propagation of thermal radiation are reviewed and compared. A simple method to account for radiation enhancement by reflection from a superior cloud deck or snow cover, as well as attenuation of radiation by cloud cover below the burst is presented. The results show that the thermal "reach" may vary considerably. Additional calculations show that a significant fraction of the thermal energy may be incident after the arrival of the shock wave. Results for a range of weapon yields are presented, and the implications for blast-induced (secondary) fire starts are discussed.
Description
The different methods and correlations used to calculate the propagation of thermal radiation are reviewed and compared. A simple method to account for radiation enhancement by reflection from a superior cloud deck or snow cover, as well as attenuation of radiation by cloud cover below the burst is presented. The results show that the thermal "reach" may vary considerably. Additional calculations show that a significant fraction of the thermal energy may be incident after the arrival of the shock wave. Results for a range of weapon yields are presented, and the implications for blast-induced (secondary) fire starts are discussed.
Distribution Classification
1
Distribution Conflict
No
DTIC Record Exists
No
Illinois Tech Related
No
Photo Quality
Not Needed
Report Availability
Full text available
Type
article
Media
article26