Optimisation and characterisation of compositions with low sensitivity based on FOX-7 and energetic binders. Large-scale GAP test of pure FOX-7

Authors:

  • Adolfsson Reine
  • Bodin Lars
  • Eldsäter Carina
  • Pettersson Åke
  • Roman Nils
  • Wanhatalo Marita

Publish date: 2002-01-01

Report number: FOI-R--0668--SE

Pages: 25

Written in: Swedish

Abstract

Composition B has been used for over 50 years in a large number of applications. It is well known and has good performance. It is easily processed and is made from relatively low-price raw materials. Unfortunately, it suffers from a lot of problems. It may shrink during manufacturing, which results in cracks and voids. It is sensitive to impact and reacts violently during cook-off. These drawbacks have resulted in a need to find low-vulnerability replacements to Composition B. 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethylene (FOX-7) is a good candidate when low vulnerability is of concern. FOI has previously developed a PBX composition based on 70% of FOX-7 and 30% of an energetic binder, which includes polyGLYN and butyl-NENA. Small-scale slow cook-off and detonationstest showed that this composition was insensitive. Unfortunately, this composition was very stiff. This report describes the development of a new energetic binder, based on polyGLYN and GAP. This new binder has improved elasticity and low-temperature properties. It has also been discussed if FOX-7 alone or as an additive, could be useful as a propellant. This report presents results from a study where the burn rate of a FOX-7 based solid propellant has been measured. A gap test of pure FOX-7 has also been done. The purpose of this test is to evaluate the impact sensitivity of the pure compound and this result will serve as a reference value in tests of future FOX-7 based compositions.