Diamond Materials for Electromagnetic Railguns

Abstract
The use of diamond film insulator in electromagnetic railguns is currently being seriously considered since the state of the art in synthetic: diamond exceeds the requirements of electromagnetic railguns. The reasons for not using diamond, however, include the major difficulty in producing diamond insulators in the required shape and size that can survive the harsh railgun environment. This paper reviews railgun operation dynamics and potential materials including diamond for high performance of railguns. It further reviews the present status of scientific, technological and commercial developments; of diamond coatings. Alternate coatings and the properties that make them amenable for railgun applications are also discussed.

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