Development of Novel Polynitrogen-Based High-Performance Solid Propellants
Abstract
In this STTR program, CFDRC, in collaboration with the University of Idaho, proposed to develop some novel high-performance polynitrogen energetic materials for propellant applications. As a proof-of-concept, we synthesized a number of promising high energy amine substituted tetrazole based compounds. These compounds were first theoretically investigated to obtain their heats of formation, densities, specific impulses, detonation pressures and velocities. The synthesized compounds were characterized, and densities, melting points and impact sensitivities were measured in the laboratory. Some of these compounds have remarkably low impact sensitivities. We conclude that at least five compounds have excellent potential for use a propellant ingredient. Impact sensitivities were further measured in a mixture of ammonium nitrate. We observed that a small percentage of ammonium nitrate improves the impact sensitivities further while improving the oxygen balance. In Phase II, these compounds will be formulated, and undergo a rigorous set of tests, such as burn rate, compatibility, mechanical strength, to evaluate their performance in practical situations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA522116
Entities
People
- Debasis Sengupta
- Jean'ne Shreeve