Spectroscopy and Thermal Decomposition Mechanism of NTO.
Abstract
The physical and chemical properties of the high explosive NTO have been investigated by infrared spectroscopy and thin film infrared laser pyrolysis in order to determine the initial chemical steps in the decomposition mechanism. It was found that the initial steps form carbon dioxide by a bimolecular reaction mechanism involving reaction of two NTO molecules in the crystal. The relative insensitivity of NTO to accidental ignition is attributed to a unique crystal structure that holds reactive groups of the molecules apart from each other and forces disruption of the crystal structure (melting) before reaction can take place. A similar mechanism has been found to explain the insensitivity of 2,4-dinitroimizazole compared with its structural isomer, 1,4-dinitroimidazole.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA329758
Entities
People
- Charles A. Wight
Organizations
- University of Utah