Indicating Inconsistency of Desensitizing High Explosives against Impact through Recrystallization at the Nanoscale

Abstract

Microscaled 1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) is recrystallized by the spray flash evaporation technique to obtain nanoscaled RDX powder. Recrystallization is tracked by diverse methods, including atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Reduced sensitivity to friction and electrostatic discharge as a consequence of less internal defects within the RDX nanocrystals makes recrystallized material more favorable against unwanted ignition. Increased sensitivity to impact of the nanomaterials is detected and desensitization is discussed in detail with regard to hot-spot theory and potential influencing variables. Surface engineering of nano-RDX by the above-mentioned spray process shows desensitization against stimuli from impact.