Oxidation Control in TNT Production.
Abstract
Large scale production of TNT is complicated by oxidative side reactions that result in undesirable yield losses and by-products. White compound (WC), an azoxy-linked derivative of the oxidation products of TNT, is a solid contaminant in large scale, continuous TNT production. Production must be routinely shut down to remove the WC deposited on surfaces in TNT lines, a process that is costly and time consuming. In addition, a serious explosion in the TNT lines at the Radford Arsenal was found to be indirectly related to WC deposits in the line. The current program was then begun. The direct aim of this work was to determine if oxidation could be reduced or eliminated by removing the NO2 that forms during the nitration reaction. We also surveyed the effects of initial SO3 levels, stainless steel surfaces, and reaction temperature, and the effect of adding oxidation inhibitors and promoters on the oxidation of dinitrotoluene in mixed acid systems. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 31, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA048256
Entities
People
- David S. Ross
- Robert L. Simon
- Ruben A. Flores
Organizations
- SRI International