High Pressure Pressing Technique for Solvated Cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX) and Cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine (HMX) Pellets.

Abstract : A technique for preparing high density, mechanically strong explosive pellets without any binder is described. It involves pressing under high pressure (51.6 MPa) and the use of acetone as a solvating liquid. For cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX), the pellet density obtained is 98% of the theoretical density of the pure crystals. Pellets of cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine (HMX) can also be prepared the same way. The residual acetone in the pellet is negligible for most applications. The procedure is a batch operation with pressing time 2-10 minutes. (Author)