A detonation physics primer: Theory and Experiments

Detonation physics is a fascinating field at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and engineering. This talk provides a comprehensive primer on the fundamental principles governing detonation phenomena. Starting from inert shock wave physics we will explore the theoretical underpinnings, including the Chapman-Jouguet and ZND models, and discuss how these frameworks describe the propagation and initiation of detonation waves. The most important experimental techniques for studying detonations under harsh measurement conditions with velocities of several km/s and pressures in the range of tens of GPa will be reviewed. By bridging theory and experiment, this presentation aims to o2er a clear understanding of the mechanisms driving detonations and highlight current challenges and advancements in the field.