AbstractAs a result of interest stemming from shock wave studies carried out at Lawrence Livermore Laboratory, we have developed a capability to conduct x-ray diffraction studies in submicrosecond time intervals. This involves the use of a low impedance flash x-ray device. While there are many applications to which these techniques can be put, our first experiments deal with samples undergoing shock wave compression. These particular experiments are conducted by synchronizing a 40 to 50 nsec flash x-ray device to a shock front which is produced by the detonation of a high explosive placed in contact with a sample. Diffracted radiation is usually recorded on very sensitive film protected by a blast cassette. Thus far we have subjected lithium fluoride, aluminum, and carbon to pressures in the range of 100 to 300 kbar. Either powder or single crystal samples can be used. The principal difficulties of this experiment are the lack of sufficient intensity and the synchronization of the x-ray pulse to the shock front.
