Shock wave overpressure history mapping using high-resolution distributed acoustic sensing

Abstract

This study explored the use of high-resolution distributed acoustic sensing (HR-DAS) for measuring blast wave overpressures, addressing the limitations of conventional pressure transducers. Shock tube experiments were conducted to evaluate HR-DAS performance in capturing side-on blast overpressures, comparing its strain measurements with reference piezoelectric pressure transducers. The study examined the effects of sensing fibre orientation and mounting methods on sensor sensitivity. Results showed that HR-DAS strain histories aligned well with conventional pressure measurements. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of HR-DAS for blast wave sensing, highlighting its potential for further development and broader applications.