Desensitization of Zirconium Powder Used in Primers, Phase 4
Abstract
The mechanics of the desensitization process for zirconium powder used in primers wherein zirconium powder is treated with 1% hydrofluoric acid is considered. On the basis of experimental work and logical deduction it is concluded that the process consists of the dissolution of the oxide surface and the formation of a layer of zirconium hydride containing some fluoride. A method was developed for the determination of the fluoride colorimetrically by the zirconium-alizarin colorimetric method after prior dissolution of the coating by digestion with hot 10% sodium hydroxide solution. The only significant difference between treated and untreated samples was the hydrogen and fluoride contents. Treated zirconium had a hydrogen content that averaged 0.035% higher than untreated powders. Treated zirconium contained about 0.14% fluoride. Various other aspects of the coating were considered. The desensitization process is useful to Ordnance particularly if the zirconium powder in question is overly sensitive (that is, if it does not pass the electrostatic energy test). The effect of impurities on the sensitivity of zirconium powders is discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0645274
Entities
People
- George Norwitz
- John J. Jackiewicz