Thermal Stability of ε‐Hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane in an Estane Formulation

Abstract

Abstract A change in color and density during prolonged heating of a formulation containing ε‐hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (HNIW) and Estane 5702 was investigated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis. Starting materials, virgin and final colored formulation were studied. Analysis revealed polymorphic impurity at all stages of production and processing, the nature and concentration of which changed with treatment of the material. Thermally‐induced polymorphic conversion was determined to be the cause of the decrease in density, whereas the color change was speculated to be the result of binder degradation. Sensitivity to impact, friction and electrostatic spark were unchanged.