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Experimental determination of TNT equivalence values for binary energetic materials
Gracie May M James1, Rachel L Bauer1, Emily M Johnson1
1Mining and Explosives Engineering Department, Missouri University of Science and Technology, 1400 North Bishop Ave, Rolla, MO, 65409, USA.
Scientific Reports
|May 4, 2025
Summary
This study determined TNT equivalency for several energetic materials using plate dent, reaction velocity, and air blast tests. Results show varied performance, highlighting the need to match test types to material characteristics for accurate safety and performance evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Energetic Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Explosives Safety
Background:
- TNT equivalency is crucial for safety and performance evaluation of energetic materials.
- Many binary energetics lack published TNT equivalence data, hindering their assessment.
- Standardized testing is needed to compare diverse energetic materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally determine TNT equivalency values for specific energetic materials: Helix, Texpak, Rimfire, Tannerite, and Kinepak.
- To evaluate the performance of these energetics using distinct test methodologies.
- To provide data for improved safety guidelines and performance assessments.
Main Methods:
- Utilized three distinct experimental tests: plate dent, reaction velocity, and air blast.
- Each test was designed to assess different facets of energetic performance, from close-in effects to downstream impacts.
- Collected and analyzed data to calculate TNT equivalence ratios for each material and test combination.
Main Results:
- Helix showed TNT equivalence values comparable to TNT (0.64-1.10).
- Kinepak exhibited lower brisance but higher air-blast impulse (0.18-0.58).
- Tannerite and Rimfire had low brisance, with TNT equivalence values ranging from 0.18-0.71 based on reaction velocity and air blast.
Conclusions:
- Commercial AN-based energetics generally yielded low TNT equivalence values.
- Liquid energetics demonstrated values closer to TNT.
- The choice of testing method significantly influences TNT equivalence determination, with plate dent/reaction velocity for close-in power and air blast for downstream effects.
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