Critical Analysis of Nitramine Decomposition Data: Activation Energies and Frequency Factors for HMX and RDX Decomposition
Abstract
There is currently considerable interest in the use of nitramine oxidizers in gun and rocket propellants due to their desirable properties, such as absence of noxious combustion products, high specific impulse and impetus, and thermal stability. The most commonly used nitramine oxidizers are RDX (also known by such names as hexogen or cyclonite) and HMX. (Octogen). A literature review is presented, on kinetic parameters for thermal decomposition of HMX and RDX in the homogeneous vapor, liquid, and dissolved states. The decomposition apparently fits first-order kinetics, and suggested values for Arrhenius parameters for HMX and RDX decomposition in the gaseous and liquid phases, and for decomposition of RDX in solution in TNT are given. The possible importance of autocatalysis is pointed out as are some possible complications that may be encountered in interpreting, extending or extrapolating kinetic data for these compounds from measurements carried out below their melting points to the higher temperatures and pressures characteristic of combustion. The mechanistic implications of the activation energies and frequency factors are discussed. Keywords: Statistical analysis; Vapor phase decomposition; Neat liquid.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA160543
Entities
People
- M. A. Schroeder
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory