Studies on the Preparation and Properties of RDX
Abstract
The principles and conditions were determined for obtaining RDX (or RDX-HMX) in high grind quality and in excellent yield. The RDX was prepared by the action of nitric acid, acetic anhydride, and ammonium nitrate on hexamine which was added in the solid form, in the form of dinitrate, and also in acetic acid. The processing of the product is described. Nearly pure RDX can be filtered directly from the reaction mixture, or a mixture of RDX-HMX can be obtained by diluting the reaction mixture with water. An acetone and a nitromethane purification of the product were worked out which gave a product with an acidity, vacuum stability, and ballistic power within the specifications. The effect of various factors on the sensitivity of RDX-HMX mixtures is discussed. A structure is proposed for the high-melting impurity, HMX, which accompanies the RDX. Some work is reported on the study of BSX, a substance which can be obtained from the same reagents used to prepare RDX.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 24, 1943
- Accession Number
- ADB803051
Entities
People
- W. E. Bachmann
Organizations
- University of Michigan