This talk reviews a two-part series of papers, recently authored by the speaker. In Part One (), the Combustion Continuum framework is introduced to classify oxidation reactions of energetic materials into three distinct regimes: burning, deflagration, and detonation (BDD). Unlike conventional approaches, this model treats these reactions as points on a continuum defined by reaction speed, with clear transition criteria. The shift from combustion to deflagration is marked by the onset of an atmospheric shock wave – a novel, observable definition that resolves ambiguity in prior literature. The transition to detonation occurs when the reaction "shocks up" to form a self-sustaining, shock-driven detonation front.
In Part Two (), the authors apply this framework to explosive ordnance disposal (EOD). They propose that munitions "high-order" if their explosive content detonates and "low-order" if it burns or deflagrates. This distinction addresses critical gaps in evaluating EOD outcomes, where traditional classifications often lack precision. By analysing physical evidence (e.g. fragmentation patterns, crater morphology), the study establishes a munition reaction scale to standardise post-intervention assessments.
This work challenges fragmented definitions in existing literature, offering a unified system to differentiate reaction types and improve safety protocols. The continuum model not only advances theoretical understanding but also provides actionable tools for EOD professionals to categorize and mitigate risks effectively.
The Terrorism Risk Assessment, Modelling and Mitigation Seminar Series (TRAMMSS) is a virtual seminar series focused on technical topics related to terrorism risk assessment, and modelling, including blast modelling and response; IEDs; vehicles as weapons; CBRN; big data for risk assessment, security and screening; and associated mitigation measures.
Speaker
Roland Alford is a part-time PhD student, as well as the Managing Director and Chief Technical Officer at Alford Group. He graduated from UCL with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and is a chartered engineer. Roland has worked as an explosives engineer since 2002, although his fascination with explosives began in childhood under the guidance of his father, Dr Sidney Alford. His expertise lies in designing explosively driven tools for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), improvised explosive device disposal (IEDD), explosive breaching and demolition – technologies now widely adopted by police and military organisations worldwide.
Since 2016, Roland has played a key role in major industrial demolition projects, including the successful demolition of the Didcot Power Station’s boiler house after a tragic accident, and the explosive demolition of Hazelwood Power Station in Australia.
Currently, Roland’s research focuses on experimentally understanding tamped explosive charges in direct contact with targets. He is investigating the two-phase propulsion process – initial brisant propulsion during detonation, followed by gas propulsion – by measuring and characterising the effects. Further studies will explore how variations in explosive type, tamping material, and charge geometry influence impulse generation. To support this work, Roland has developed a scalable, modular ballistic pendulum, enabling experiments with charges ranging from a few grams to over half a kilogram.
Who should attend
This seminar is open to guests from outside 91黑料网, who may work in academia, research, or industry. Due to the potentially sensitive nature of this seminar series, guests should be able to show that they are affiliated with an appropriate bona fide organisation.
Cost
The event is free of charge, but participants must register for the TRAMMSS mailing list in advance.How to register
To attend this seminar, you must register for the TRAMMSS mailing list via the . Further information on the TRAMMSS community can be found on the main website at cranfield.ac.uk/TRAMMSS.
