The identification of bonding agents for TATB/HTPB polymer bonded explosives

Abstract

Abstract To obtain a polymer bonded explosive (PBX) with acceptable properties it is generally considered necessary to modify the bonding of the filler explosive to the polymer matrix. This is usually achieved by the addition of a ‘bonding agent’. This paper describes an investigation of the interaction of some bonding agents with the surface of the insensitive high explosive l,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitro-benzene. The mechanical properties of the surface modified explosive loaded into a matrix of isocyanate cured hydroxy-terminated polybutadiene have also been studied to elucidate the role of the bonding agent and produce a PBX with high extensibility.