Explosive Effects + Testing

To solve practical problems related to the effects of explosions, impacts, and fire on materials and structures in both military and commercial settings, SRI's Poulter Laboratory conducts extensive research and creates simulation scenarios. SRI also operates one of the largest, best equipped, privately owned explosives testing facilities in the world.

Products and capabilities include:

  • Low-pressure dilute explosives

  • Scale-model structures

  • Natural-gas-fire experiments 

  • A wide range of impact experiments

  • Explosive detection systems and other counter-terrorism solutions 

  • Analysis of X-ray deposition, pulsed lasers, and shock waves on materials

  • Missiles and missile launch tubes

  • Methods for clearing landmines and obstacles in the surf zone

  • Improving the effectiveness of torpedoes

  • Simulating underwater explosions

Projects

An SRI researcher observes FRASTA images on a computer
FRASTA: Fracture Surface Topography Analysis

SRI has developed a breakthrough technology for diagnosing and predicting fatigue failure in pipelines, aircraft, bridges, power plants, and other structures using quantitative 3D fractography.

Topics: Ceramic Composites Coatings for Corrosion Resistance Combustion Explosive Effects + Testing Fracture Physics + Failure Analysis Microscience + Engineering
canisters of hydrogen stacked up next to a flammability warning sign
Hydrogen Safety Research Program

SRI has partnered with Sandia National Laboratories to provide the data necessary to ensure that hydrogen can be used safely as a transportation fuel.

Topics: Combustion Energy Security Explosive Effects + Testing
SRI researchers examine a IPDM test device.
Remediating Unexploded Ordnance

SRI has developed a novel approach to safely and efficiently render harmless weapons and ammunition that are no longer needed for military use.

Topics: Counter-Terrorism Explosive Effects + Testing Force Protection Homeland Security + National Defense

Divisions, Centers + Labs