Electric breakdown and explosive decomposition of PETN monocrystals initiated by electron beam

The glowing, fracture, and explosive decomposition of pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) monocrystals initiated by a nanosecond pulsed high-current electron beam (HEB) have been experimentally studied. It is established that crystallographically oriented electric (strimer) discharges are formed within the electron-beam action range in the crystal in a broad range of energy densities (0.1–75.0 J/cm$^2$). Threshold energy density for the electric breakdown, fracture, and explosive decomposition of PETN monocrystals under HEB action have been determined. In contrast to pressed PETN samples, monocrystals exhibit incomplete explosion with expansion of the majority of unreacted substance.