Exploration of the application of ADN in composite explosives

Ammonium dinitramide (ADN) is a high-performance, novel green oxidizer that is commonly used in solid propellants. It offers advantages such as a large oxygen balance and significant gas release, making it a promising candidate for use as an oxidizing component in composite explosives. To explore the application of ADN in composite explosives, this study investigates the compatibility between ADN, cyclotrimethylene trinitramine (RDX), aluminum powder, and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), addressing the safety concerns associated with the use of ADN in composite explosives where RDX serves as the primary explosive. Based on this research, a series of formulations were designed, and theoretical calculations related to detonation parameters were conducted, with ammonium perchlorate (AP) serving as a parallel control to examine the detonation performance of ADN-based composite explosives. Finally, granulated powder was prepared according to the formulations to assess the mechanical sensitivity of ADN-based composite explosives. The results indicate that ADN exhibits good compatibility with RDX, aluminum powder, and TPU. Theoretical values for detonation heat, detonation velocity, and detonation volume of ADN-based composite explosives are all greater than those of AP-based composite explosives, displaying certain patterns with variations in RDX content or the ratio of aluminum powder to oxidizer. Furthermore, maintaining a moderate ratio of aluminum powder to oxidizer while reducing the content of the primary explosive can effectively lower the mechanical sensitivity of ADN-based composite explosives.