MISERS BLUFF II Cloud Sampling Program, Data Summary and Dust Cloud Characterizations

This report describes in detail the analysis of the MISERS BLUFF II dust cloud data base (in-situ particle size spectral data and fallout data) obtained during Phase 1 of the MISERS BLUFF II Cloud Sampling Program. The analysis indicates a mass loading ratio of about 7 at cloud stabilization (T+10 minutes) between the multiple and single burst dust clouds. Although, within the range of measurement uncertainties, this value may be comparable to that value of six predicted by linear superposition, photographic evidence of the multiple burst event strongly suggests this about 15 percent 'enhancement' in mass aloft may be real. Of greater importance, the analysis revealed that linearly superimposing six of the MBII single burst dust clouds resulted in a significant overestimation of average mass concentrations that were found in the multiple burst cloud. This overestimation appears to be due to the inability of linear superpostion to treat the effects of the hydrodynamic and thermodynamic interactions occurring between closely spaced detonations. (Author)