Studying Shocked Material Dynamics with Ultrafast X-rays

The response of micron-scale inhomogeneities dictates the overall dynamic, structural and chemical response of many materials. Of particular interest is the response of micron scale voids. It is believed that such micron scale voids are responsible for the nucleation of damage leading to structural failure in metals and to initiation of detonation in explosive material under high strain-rates. A critical step towards developing safer, stronger, and longer lasting materials in a range of applications from energy to defense requires understanding the dynamic response of these inhomogeneties on the micron-scale.