Characterization of Condensed-phase Decomposition Behaviors of Energetic Materials
Abstract
The condensed-phase decomposition behaviors must be elucidated in order to formulate comprehensive ignition and combustion models, as well as to understand the complex burning behavior of energetic materials at high pressures. These models must be able to predict the burning behaviors over a wide range of operating pressures. In this proposal, the authors request funds for the purchase of a high-pressure thermogravimetric analyzer (HP-TGA) and a high-pressure differential scanning calorimeter (HP-DSC). In the HP-TGA, the milligram sample mass is continuously weighed during a programmed heating interval, usually a linear rise in the temperature which can vary from about 1K/min to 50K/min. A portion of the evolved gases are directed to valve, across which the pressure is reduced and then sent to a mass spectrometer for detection and quantification of the species that evolved from the decomposition. In the HP-DSC, the milligram sample is also subjected to programmed heating intervals similar or identical to the HP-TGA. However, the instantaneous sample mass is not weighed, but instead small thermocouples detect endothermic or exothermic events which are quantified via calibration. In this proposal, funds for the purchase of model HP-TGA-75 from TA Instruments and model DSC 204 HP from Netzsch are requested. The TGA can operate up to 80 bar and the DSC to 150 bar. These pieces of equipment will be used in several different DoD projects, including two projects sponsored by the Army Research Office. In the first ARO-sponsored project, the objective is to develop combustion models of RDX and HMX, mixed with an energetic burn rate modifier. In the second ARO-sponsored project, the objective is to perform burn rate measurements of both liquid and solid propellants at ultra-high pressures. It is expected that the HP-TGA and HP-DSC will provide valuable information for both model development and interpretation of complex burning behaviors of energetic materials at high pressures. This proposal requests a start date of February 1, 2020.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 09, 2020
- Source ID
- W911NF2010086
Entities
People
- Stefan Thynell
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Pennsylvania State University
- United States Army