Initial processes of explosive decomposition of heavy metal azides exposured to pulsed radiation

Results of experimental investigations into the kinetics of explosive decomposition of heavy metal azides excited by laser pulses and pulsed electron beams of nanosecond duration as well as in the course of a decomposition reaction initiated by accelerated particles are presented. It is demonstrated that the kinetics of such excitation processes differs only by the presence of a burst of cathode luminescence. It is established that the decomposition reaction is initiated by impacts of accelerated particles of micron sizes. The structural mechanism of initial reaction initiation is suggested.