Abstract and subjects
The development of low adjustable detonation velocity plastic bonded explosive (PBX) formulations is described. The PBX consists of octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX), zinc oxide, and Viton A as the binder. We prepared several formulations and determined a range of sensitivity values with respect to impact, spark, friction, and thermal stability for these formulations. Furthermore, we experimentally determined the detonation velocity of each formulation and discovered that a detonation velocity near 5 km/s is attainable using 30 wt% HMX, 60 wt% zinc oxide, and 5 wt% Viton A.