Toward Unraveling the Photochemistry of TATB

A combined theoretical and experimental chemical analysis has been conducted to unravel the mechanism underlying the color change of yellow TATB (1,3,5 triamino-trinitro-benzene) to green upon UV irradiation. There is strong evidence to conclude that the process is photochemical in nature and due to the formation of the mono nitroso derivative. They have identified a chemical synthesis by which this derivative compound can be produced in the laboratory, thus allowing for direct testing and determination of its chemical and physical properties. Calculations also show only a slight decrease in the sensitivity and performance of the irradiated materials, attributed to the formation of this previously unidentified species.