Kilobar blast pressure transducer: 3.4 Kilobar piezoresistive blast pressure sensor using silicon load cell technique

Measurements of blast pressures in high-explosive experiments require highly specialized transducers. This report describes development of a resistance-based transducer for measurements to 3.4 kilobars. A unique transduction scheme employing a silicon cylinder incorporates diffused transverse piezoresistive elements to respond as a load cell to compressive stress. Considerations for hardening against blast thermal and shock accelerations are reflected in design of the unit. Five prototypes were fabricated and test results are presented.