Investigation of the Properties of Polymer Bonded Explosives Based on 1,1-Diamino-2,2-dinitroethene (FOX-7) and 1,3,5,7-Tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetraazacyclooctane (HMX)

The influence of polymeric matrices on the physical properties and stability of polymer bonded explosives based on FOX-7 (1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethene) and HMX (1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetraazacyclooctane) was investigated. Samples of explosives were prepared with different polymeric additives e.g. nonylphenylpolyoxyethyleneglycol ethers (ROKAFENOL), silicone greases and poly(3-methyl-3-nitroxymethyloxetane) (Poly(NIMMO)). The mass ratio of polymeric matrices to explosives was determined experimentally in order to obtain plastic samples stable at room temperature. The most promising products were tested for sensitivity to mechanical and thermal stimuli. Determinations of the critical diameter and detonation velocity were also performed. The use of silicone grease in the mixture containing Poly(NIMMO) gave the most desirable results, that is to say a combination of high performance and high stability.