Generating mechanical pulses by the laser blasting of explosive coatings

For strength tests of materials and structures, a method of generating mechanical pulses over a large area ($\approx$ 1 m$^2$) is proposed on the basis of the laser blasting of explosive coatings. Compositions with record high levels of sensitivity (4 $\cdot$ 10$^{-3}$ - 4 $\cdot$ 10$^{-2}$ J/cm$^2$) to a single laser pulse are developed, as well as technologies for producing coatings of these compositions on various materials. This approach yields submicrosecond load pulses of density 0.08–1.0 kPa sec.