A KINETIC STUDY OF THE THERMAL DECOMPOSITION OF ETHYL NITRATE
Abstract
The thermal decomposition of gaseous Et nitrate (I) was studied at 161 deg, 181 deg, and 201 deg C. The data (pressure of the particular component/initial pressure of I) were plotted according to a first-order reaction. The results at 161 deg and 181 deg C were divisible into 2 parts, an initial linear portion and a second linear portion of higher slope; the change in slope occurred at about 50 and 201 deg C did not permit division. The effects of NO sub-2, Et nitrite (II), and Hg on the decomposition rate are discussed. The NO sub-2 content usually did not exceed 10% of the initial amount of I; the NO sub- 2 pressure variation was attributed to NO sub-2 formation from the decomposition of I and NO sub-2 consumption by EtOH, a dissociation product of II. No formed directly from the decomposition of II. The presence of Me nitrite and MeNO sub-2 was established at the end of the reaction. Peak pressures of II occurred at 70 and 62% of the initial concentration of I at 161 deg and 181 deg C, respectively; more II was formed than could be accounted for by the NO sub-2-EtOH reaction. The decompostion mechanism of I cannot be completely explained by attributing the point of molecule fracture of the O-N bond.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 12, 1952
- Accession Number
- AD0007459
Entities
People
- Joseph B. Levy
Organizations
- Naval Ordnance Laboratory