Exploring the explosive potential of 2,3-dihydrofuran derivatives as novel insensitive high-energy density materials

In this study, a series of carefully designed oxygen-rich bicyclic ozonides, derived from 2,3-dihydrofuran (2,6,7,8-tetraoxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane), have been studied with meticulous attention to the incorporation of nitro and/or trinitromethyl (TNM) substituents. These compounds exhibit significant promise as high-energy-density materials (HEDMs), thus representing a pioneering avenue in the realm of advanced energetic materials. Evaluating the energetic performances and impact sensitivity is the focus of our theoretical calculations. The majority of the designed compounds exhibit elevated density, complemented by outstanding detonation properties. Each of these compounds demonstrates a high positive heat of formation, with many of them displaying impact sensitivities well suited for applications in high-energy density materials (HEDMs). Due to their significant oxygen content, all 45 designed compounds maintain a high positive oxygen balance. This unique combination of high-performance characteristics and low sensitivities positions them as promising candidates for high-energy explosives. Notably, among the compounds, FOZ23 (3-nitro-5-(trinitromethyl)-2,6,7,8-tetraoxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane), FOZ19 (3-nitro-4-(trinitromethyl)-2,6,7,8-tetraoxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane), and FOZ24 (1-nitro-5-(trinitromethyl)-2,6,7,8-tetraoxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane) exhibit exceptional performance and sensitivities, warranting further investigation and consideration. From the analysis of BDE of C-NO₂ and O-O linkages, it was found that the peroxide bond is stronger than C-NO₂ bond. Therefore, peroxides can be used for various applications in the nearby future by incorporating proper substitutions.

Gaussian 09 program was used for geometry optimization and vibrational frequency analysis of the selected compounds. The method employed for the study was density functional theory at the B3LYP level of approximation using aug-cc-pVDZ as the basis set. Multiwfn program was employed for Electrostatic potential analysis.