L3's Impulse Tube is used for testing the effects of a pressure wave on sample materials.

It is used to research more effective armor to protect personnel against the effects of a bomb blast.

The pressure wave is created by first charging the breach end of the tube with high pressure gas. As more gas is added the pressure increases until a plastic diaphragm retaining the gas in the breach ruptures.

The pressure wave travels down the tube and impacts the test article placed at the far end.