Surfactants and Desensitizing Wax Substitutes for TNT-Based Systems.
Abstract
MACH I, Inc. developed three polyvinylpyrrolidones (Ganex resins) that are effective emulsifiers for microcrystalline or selected substitute desensitizing waxes in AFX-644 TNT melt cast bomb explosive. Ganex resins also are excellent dispersants for TNT melt casting and PBX in which they provide important benefits: wetting, coating, dispersion, lubrication, thinning, void filling, desensitization, and increased production rate. Ganex resins are expected to be effective emulsifiers and dispersants with microcrystalline desensitizing waxes or the recommended substitutes in any melt cast system such as Compositions B, HBX-1, D-2, and H-6. Furthermore, by reducing viscosity Ganex resins are expected to facilitate processing of PBX compositions such as AFX-931 in batch mixers as well as continuous mixers (e.g., twin-screw extruders). The Ganex surfactants appear promising for use in most munitions mixing processes for production of: ammunition, bombs, missiles, projectiles, demolition charges and special purpose devices. MACH I, Inc. also developed promising polar wax substitutes, having different desensitizing mechanisms, to enhance the benefits cited above. These substitutes offer greater formulation flexibility than conventional waxes to mitigate possible fuzing insensitivity or loss of explosive power. In contrast to conventional desensitizing wax, they are easier to emulsify and are dependably available in ample quantity and consistent quality. (jg)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA289652
Entities
People
- Gary Statton
- Robert C. Taylor