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Gas Retention in an HMX-based Explosive (LX-14)

Journal Article · · Science and Technology of Energetic Materials
OSTI ID:1481784
 [1];  [1];  [1];  [2]
  1. Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
  2. US Army Armament Research, Dev. & Engineering Center, Picatinny Arsenal, NJ (United States)

In previous studies, we found that the nitroplasticizer in the HMX-based explosive PBX 9501 played a crucial role in cookoff, especially when predicting response in larger systems. We have recently completed experiments with a similar explosive, LX-14, that has a relatively nonreactive binder. We expected the ignition times for LX-14 to be longer than PBX 9501 since PBX 9501 has a more reactive binder. However, our experiments show the opposite trend. This paradox can be explained by retention of reactive gases within the interior of LX-14 by the higher strength binder resulting in faster ignition times. In contrast, the binder in PBX 9501 melts at low temperatures and does not retain decomposition gases as well as the LX- 14 binder. Retention of reactive gases in LX-14 may also explain the more violent response in oblique impact tests when compared to PBX 9501.

Research Organization:
Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC04-94AL85000
OSTI ID:
1481784
Report Number(s):
SAND--2017-10516J; 657388
Journal Information:
Science and Technology of Energetic Materials, Journal Name: Science and Technology of Energetic Materials Journal Issue: 1-2 Vol. 79; ISSN 1347-9466
Publisher:
Japan Explosives SocietyCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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