Explosive Characteristics and Shaped Charge Applications of Nitromethane (NM): A Review

Nitromethane (NM or CH3NO2 ) has a wide range of applications as a detonating homogeneous liquid explosive. Although, its use as a liquid propellant is more pronounced, the determination and characterization of NM and its mixtures for their various detonation properties has gained in importance. Various researchers have performed initiation studies of NM by shock and jet, and the presence of a superdetonation zone has also been debated. The opacity or otherwise of the reaction and detonation zones has been investigated experimentally. Sensitization or dilution of NM by various additives and the effect on the detonation behavior has also been investigated. In recent times, the use of NM as a field-filled homogeneous filling in shaped charges for the disposal of unexploded ordnance has gained in importance. The experimental observations and related theoretical aspects for the use of NM as a filling for shaped charges are illustrated in this article. Overall, NM can be thought suitable as a viable future alternative for both commercial and military applications.