Horst G. Adolph

Shock-sensitivity relationships for nitramines and nitroaliphatics

Abstract For groups of nitramines and nitroaliphatics, taken separately it is shown that shock, sensitivity is related to the strengths of all of Nue5f8NO2 and/or Cue5f8NO2 bonds in the molecule, taken in conjunction with its overall size. The reciprocals of the bond lengths are used measures of bond strengths, while molecular weight is taken as the indicator of molecular size. Linear correlation coefficients of 0.94 and 0.98 are obtained, respectively, for nitramines and nitroaliphatics of a variety of structural types. These results are indicative of the importance of the Nue5f8NO2 and Cue5f8NO2 bonds in the shock-induced decomposition of nitramines and nitroaliphatics.

Synthesis and properties of some trisubstituted trinitrobenzenes. TATB analogs

Abstract The preparation of a number of trisubstituted trinitrobenzene derivatives which are structurally related to TATB is described. These compounds were designed to have diversified properties and were characterized with respect to their density and impact sensitivity. Some observations on sensitivity trends in these TATB analogs are discussed.

Ullmann Reaction of Picryl Bromide in the Presence of Ultrasound

Abstract Ultrasonic irradiation was found to promote the Ullmann coupling of picryl bromide at or below room temperature. In the presence of excess copper, a long-lived intermediate is formed that is quenched upon work-up affording variable mixtures of trinitrobenzene and picric acid.

Improved Synthesis of 2,2,2-Trinitroethyl Ethers

Abstract An improved synthesis of 2,2,2-trinitroethyl ethers (from iodomethyl ethers and trinitromethane) that avoids the use of unstable potassium trinitromethide is described.