Defeating Explosives Using Pulsed Power Technology

For over a century, researchers have toyed with accumulated energy technology. During 1895, an Indian scientist ignited gunpowder from a distance using intense microwaves. This type of theory relies on a steady buildup of energy, followed by its instantaneous release. While the amount of energy is the same as a traditional power source, the intensity increases during the quick release process.   

Today’s pulsed power research takes a similar approach to energy production. Energy can be progressively stored in electrostatic capacitors, magnetic fields, alternators or chemical batteries and explosives. When released all at once, the energy delivers power that’s thousands of times greater than a similar amount released one second at a time. Because of its explosive energy discharge, pulsed power is useful in a variety of settings, including fusion research, particle accelerators, electromagnetic technology and high-power lasers. Perhaps the most interesting contemporary use of pulsed power, however, is its ability to combat dangerous, military IEDs (improvised explosive devices).

Partnering with the United States Department of Defense, researchers at Texas Tech’s Center for Pulsed Power and Power Electronics are working to disable IEDs, car bombs and similar electrical systems with pulsed power technology that’s deployed from a safe distance. According to Andreas Neuber, Texas Tech engineering professor, “It should be clear to everybody that the IED problem will stay with us for the foreseeable future, with pulsed power providing several key methods of combating the issue.”   

The U.S. military branches are hopeful about this pulsed power research, since it could save thousands of lives during homeland terrorist attacks or field attacks abroad.

For more information about pulsed power technology and its use in ozone generators, capacitor banks, modulators and lasers, contact the Glew Engineering team. Employing the most qualified engineers from around the world, Glew specializes in semiconductor applications, microchip technology and a variety of other innovative energy solutions for government and industrial clients. Call 800-877-5892 for more information, or use the secure contact form to reach our Silicon Valley facility.

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