Microstructural Origins of Hot Spots in RDX Explosive and a Reference Inert Material
Abstract
The crystalline perfection in production-grade RDX material has been investigated using Berg-Barrett and Laue x-ray diffraction techniques. Particularly noteworthy is the observation by x-ray topography that pores within the crystals appear to be surrounded by a strain-free matrix. Fracto-emission experiments on production-grade and NSWC laboratory-grown RDX were performed in collaboration with Washington State University researchers. The purpose was to study the early stages of decomposition resulting from fracture. Different electron emission behaviors were observed and attributed to the nature of the fracture that occurred. Gas chromatographic analyses were performed on production-grade RDX samples that had been impact loaded to investigate whether any solid state decomposition had occurred. The trinitroso analog of RDX (called R-salt) was identified in impacted RDX residue. Hardness testing has been used to investigate the local deformation of MgF2 crystals (selected as a reference inert material). A considerable anistropy in hardness was found; the extent of the strain fields differed appreciably with crystal orientation. Fractoemission experiments were also performed on MgF2 and revealed a strong crystallographic dependence for electron emission. Nh4C104 exhibited a substantial hardness anisotropy in an initial study that was conducted.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA146685
Entities
People
- C. S. Coffey
- J. C. Hoffsommer
- K. C. Yoo
- R. G. Rosemeier
- W. L. Elban
Organizations
- University of Maryland