Time-resolved infrared spectral photography: Study of laser-initiated explosions in HN₃

Recent improvements in the technique of time-resolved infrared spectral photography (TRISP) are described. With this technique CO2 laser-induced thermal explosions of gas phase HN3/DN3 mixtures were investigated. HCl gas added to the mixtures was utilized to probe the transient temperature of the reaction. An induction period and a phase of rapid energy release were clearly identified and characterized both with respect to temperature and utilization of reactant material. © 1981 American Institute of Physics.