Shock wave interaction with a dense layer

The interaction of a planar shock wave with a high density layer (low temperature or low speed of sound) has been investigated both numerically and analytically. It has been shown that depending on the incident shock wave Mach number, M(sub s), and the densities ratio across the interface, rho(sub 4)/rho(sub 0), the interaction results in either a stationary regular reflection, RR, or a stationary Mach reflection, MR. However, even when a stationary RR is established, it is preceded by a transient MR. In addition it has been proven that the RR-MR reversible transition takes place at the normal shock point, i.e., the mechanical-equilibrium condition. Finally the interaction has been simulated with and without viscous effects, and as a result the effect of viscosity was clarified.