PROPERTIES OF TERNARY MIXTURES OF HIGH EXPLOSIVES,
Abstract
In connection with the study of ternary mixtures of high explosives the pourabilities of four compositions were investigated. The explosive properties of the following mixtures, which were found to be pourable were determined: (1) 65% Tetryl - 21% Cyclonite - 14% TNT; (2) 28% PETN 43.2% Cyclonite - 28.8% TNT; (3) 55% Haleite - 18% Tetryl 27% TNT; (4) 55% Haleite - 13.5% PETN - 31.5% TNT. The Haleite ternaries are on what may be considered the borderline of stability. Mixture (1), designated PTX-1, was found to exert a somewhat lesser fragmentation effect, in the 3 in., A.A., M42 Shell, than RDX Composition B, but had a sand test value somewhat greater than that of the latter. Its explosive and physical properties are such that (1) it would offer advantages, over Tetrytols, in brisance and power for use in mines, and other components where Tetrytols are now used, and, (2), in addition, may be considered as a substitute for RDX Composition B to conserve Cyclonite. A saving of 39 lb. Cyclonite per 100 lb. explosive would be affected by its use. Mixture (2), designated PTX-2, was found to have a higher sand test value than either 50/50 Pentolite or RDX Composition B. It was more brisant in the Fragmentation Test than the latter, and had a rate of 8010 m/s as compared to 7530 m/s for RDX Composition B. These explosive characteristics indicate it to have potentialities for uses where powerful, brisant filler are required, in particular, as a charge for fragmentation-ammunition and shaped charges. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 11, 1944
- Accession Number
- AD0615895
Entities
People
- W. R. Tomlinson Jr.
Organizations
- Picatinny Arsenal