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Toward Ultrathermally Stable and Low-Sensitivity Energetic Materials Based on a Fused [5/6/5]-Tricyclic Backbone
Lei Zhao1, Chungui Xue1, Caijin Lei1
1School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Xiaolingwei 200, Nanjing 210094, P. R. China.
Organic Letters
|May 11, 2026
Summary
Researchers synthesized a novel fused-tricyclic energetic material, NOANT, exhibiting high thermal stability (401 °C) and moderate detonation performance. This compound shows promise as an ultraheat-resistant explosive with low sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemistry
- Energetic Materials
Background:
- Developing heat-resistant energetic materials is crucial for advanced applications.
- Few synthesized compounds meet the stringent requirements of high thermal stability (400 °C) and detonation velocity (8000 m/s) while maintaining low sensitivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize novel 5/6/5-fused energetic materials with enhanced thermal stability and performance.
- To investigate the potential of intramolecular integration strategies using 1,2,4-triazine rings.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of the fused-tricyclic compound NOANT via cyclocondensation of carbohydrazide and amidoxime derivatives.
- Subsequent cyclization reaction involving bromine cyanide and N-NH2 within an N-heterocycle.
Main Results:
- NOANT achieved a thermal stability (Td) of 401 °C, surpassing TATB (360 °C).
- Demonstrated moderate detonation performance (Dv = 8218 m/s) and low sensitivity (impact sensitivity > 40 J, friction sensitivity > 360 N).
- Outperformed TATB in thermal stability and detonation velocity.
Conclusions:
- The synthesized NOANT compound exhibits excellent thermal stability, moderate detonation performance, and low sensitivity.
- NOANT is a promising candidate for ultraheat-resistant explosive applications.
- The intramolecular integration strategy is effective for designing advanced energetic materials.
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