A numerical simulation of reflection processes of a detonation wave on a wedge

Abstract. A two dimensional numerical simulation has been performed to study reflection processes of detonation waves on a wedge. The numerical scheme adopted is the flux corrected transport scheme and a two-step chemical reaction is assumed for a stoichiometric oxyhydrogen mixture diluted with argon. Transverse wave structures of the detonation are produced by artificial disturbances situated in front of a one-dimensional Chapman-Jouguet detonation wave. Numerical grids are generated by solving a Laplace equation. Results show that in the case where Mach reflection occurs, the cells in the Mach stem are smaller than those in the incident wave and are distorted in shape. There is also an initiating stage during which the cells in the Mach stem are created. The critical angle beyond which Mach reflection cannot occur is discussed. Received 15 October 1999 / Accepted 27 March 2000