Ageing of Insensitive DNAN Based Melt-Cast Explosives

Abstract

DNAN or 2,4-dinitroanisole is a new melt-cast matrix that replaces traditional TNT based melt-cast explosives. Aside from sensitiveness improvements, the use of DNAN allows for the continued operation of existing melt-cast facilities (for example the Australian Munitions plants located at Mulwala and Benalla) without the need for major plant modifications. Weapons and Combat Systems Division (WCSD) has developed several DNAN based formulations that have been extensively characterised and in an effort to better understand the ageing properties of these formulations, an accelerated ageing program was undertaken. Testing was conducted under two different ageing conditions; the first test condition was conducted at a constant 60 ?C with ambient humidity and the second test condition was the A2 diurnal cycle (representative of the MEAO climate). Analysis of the ingredient composition, sensitiveness, mechanical and thermal properties was made at 3-month intervals for a period of 12 months and results compared with conventional explosives similarly aged.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 01, 2014
Accession Number
ADA614943

Entities

People

  • Arthur Provatas
  • Craig Wall

Organizations

  • Defence Science and Technology Group

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Ammunition
  • Australia
  • Calorimetry
  • Climate
  • Degradation
  • Explosives
  • Filter Paper
  • Friction
  • High Explosives
  • High Temperature
  • Humidity
  • Insensitive Explosives
  • Materials
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Munitions
  • Thermal Properties
  • Weapons

Readers

  • Agricultural Chemistry/Soil Science
  • Rocket Propulsion.