Searching for Low-Sensitivity Cast-Melt High-Energy-Density Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Decomposition Kinetics of 3,4-Bis(4-nitro-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)-1,2,5-oxadiazole-2-oxide

Abstract

The most comprehensive approach to analyze and characterize energetic materials is suggested and applied to enable rational, rigorous design of novel materials and targeted improvements of existing materials to achieve desired properties. We report synthesis, characterization of the structure and sensitivity, and modeling of thermal and electronic stability of the energetic, heterocyclic compound, 3,4-bis(4-nitro-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)-1,2,5-oxadiazole-2-oxide (BNFF). The proposed novel, relatively simple synthesis of BNFF in excellent yields allows for an efficient scale up. Performing careful characterization indicates that these materials offer an unusual combination of properties and exhibit a relatively high energy density, high and controllable stability against decomposition, low melting temperature, and low sensitivity to initiation of detonation. First-principles calculations of activation barriers and reaction rate constants reveal the decomposition scenarios that govern the thermal stability and chemical behavior of BNFF, which appreciably differ from conventional nitro compounds. Details of the electronic structure and calculated electronic properties suggest that BNFF is an excellent candidate energetic material on its own and an attractive ingredient of modern energetic formulations to improve their stability and enable highly controllable chemical decomposition.