The interaction mechanisms among detonation waves, shock waves, and liquid droplets play a critical role in advancing propulsion technologies such as rotating detonation engines. This study conducts a detailed comparison of wave dynamics, cavitation phenomena, and droplet deformation during the detonation wave and the shock-wave interactions with a water droplet, employing a high-resolution numerical model that integrates multicomponent compressible fluid dynamics, chemical reactions, and phase transition effects. Numerical simulations reveal distinct characteristics between detonation and shock-induced phenomena. Unlike the shock wave, detonation-induced reflected shock waves exhibit significantly higher propagation velocities while maintaining nearly identical wave configurations, a phenomenon this study mechanistically explains by the unique postwave conditions. A fundamental distinction arises in cavitation dynamics between the detonation wave and the shock wave, with the detonation-wave triggering cavitation zone collapse at significantly higher rates compared with the shock wave. This difference is attributed to the shorter persistence of low-pressure regions behind the detonation front, where rapid attenuation of postwave pressure and flow velocity occurs. Moreover, detonation-induced flow interactions create unique droplet fragmentation patterns. The rapid postwave velocity reduction prevents Rayleigh-Taylor instability-driven forward jet formation, instead causing leeward-side flattening of the droplet through the vortex in the recirculation zone.

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• Cavitation
• Detonation
• Shock waves
• Drops & bubbles