Energetic Polymers and Plasticisers for Explosive Formulations - A Review of Recent Advances

Abstract : In an effort to comply with Insensitive Munitions (IM) criteria, energetic binders comprising polymer and plasticiser(s) are finding use in cast-cured polymer bonded explosives and cast composite rocket propellants. Energetic binders can be considered as cross-linked polymers that provide a matrix to bind explosive ingredients together with a plasticiser. Once cured, the polymeric binder is a tough elastomeric rubber capable of absorbing and dissipating energy from hazardous stimuli, lending itself well to IM applications. This general document outlines the most promising energetic polymers and plasticisers being considered today. Attention is focussed on several energetic polymers including glycidyl azide polymer, GAP, poly(3-nitratomethyl-3-methyloxetane), polyNIMMO and poly(glycidyl nitrate), polyGLYN, although several other energetic polymers will also be reviewed. Energetic plasticisers including oligomers (low molecular weight) of the polymers mentioned above, as well as a variety of nitrate esters, nitroaromatics and azido plasticisers, will also be reviewed. Finally, the review will recommend binder systems for DSTO's future energetic binder programs.