Characterization of HMX particles in PBX 9501

Journal Article · Wed Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1998 · AIP Conference Proceedings

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.55666· OSTI ID:295480

Skidmore, C B; Phillips, D S; Son, S F; Asay, B W ^[1]

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1. Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87545 (United States)

The particle size distribution and morphology of HMX (cyclotetramethylene-tetranitramine) in the plastic-bonded explosive, PBX 9501 (95{percent} HMX and 5{percent} polymeric binder, by weight), are important to understanding the micromechanical behavior of this material. This paper shows that the size distribution of the {open_quotes}as-received{close_quotes} HMX powder, as measured by light scattering, is not preserved through the processing operations of formulation into molding powder and subsequent consolidation through hydrostatic pressing. Morphological features such as cracking and twinning are examined using reflected light microscopy. This technique helps confirm and interpret the results of the particle size analysis. These results suggest that use of the particle size distribution of the {open_quotes}as-received{close_quotes} powder could potentially yield significant errors in detailed simulations of formulated materials. {copyright} {ital 1998 American Institute of Physics.}

• Research Organization: Los Alamos National Laboratory
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-36
• OSTI ID: 295480
• Report Number(s): CONF-970707--
• Journal Information: AIP Conference Proceedings, Journal Name: AIP Conference Proceedings Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 429; ISSN APCPCS; ISSN 0094-243X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
45 MILITARY TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONRY, AND NATIONAL DEFENSE
EXPLOSIONS
EXPLOSIVES
OPTICAL MICROSCOPY
PARTICLE SIZE
POWDERS