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TATB (triaminotrinitrobenzene) purification and particle size modification: An evaluation of processing options

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/7245135· OSTI ID:7245135
Triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB) is an insensitive high explosive with desirable safety characteristics. Mound is currently interested in developing a high purity, high surface area form of this compound to increase its potential applications. This paper describes recent development efforts. After setting purification and surface area goals, a number of processing procedures were tested to determine their practicality and effectiveness. The purification procedures included sulfuric acid recrystallization, dimethylsulfoxide/NaOH recrystallization, Soxhlet extraction, thermal gradient sublimation, and high-temperature recrystallization. Techniques identified for increasing surface area included crash precipitation of TATB and processing TATB in a fluid energy mill. An evaluation of the data suggested that a two- or three-step process will be necessary to produce the desired results. A sulfuric acid recrystallization used in conjunction with a high-temperature recrystallization is recommended to achieve the necessary purity. This should be followed by a crash precipitation or milling step to meet surface area requirements. 5 refs., 5 figs., 1 tab.
Research Organization:
EG and G Mound Applied Technologies, Miamisburg, OH (USA)
Sponsoring Organization:
DOE/DP
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-88DP43495
OSTI ID:
7245135
Report Number(s):
MLM-3629; ON: DE90008176
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English