Backyard Blaster - 4-4-2004 at 10:05
Perhaps this is a simple question, perhaps not. I've noticed a big difference in the odors produced, when AP detonates or deflagrates (burns with
a flame and WHOOSH!). When deflagrated, it smells kind of like butane/propane/some hydrocarbon. When detonated, it produces a very pungent odor that
is not pleasant to breathe at all. Exactly what gases are released during each of these two reactions, and what other factors are involved? (chemicals
used, etc).
Just curious.
Esplosivo - 4-4-2004 at 10:22
I am not sure about the answer but being peroxides containing carbon, hydrogen and oxygen organic peroxides should deflagrate in air to form carbon
monoxide, which burns completely to form CO2 and water. On deflagration I note a yellow flame showing the presence of incomplete combustion. I doubt
there could be formation of other hydrocarbons because the enthalpy change produced during combustion would be enough to burn any forming hydrocarbon.
That is just a guess.
unionised - 4-4-2004 at 15:11
A couple of thoughts.
Explosions do not always give complete combustion (engine exhausts are the best known case of this).
Explosions often run rather hot, it is quite possible that various oxides of nitrogen get made and these don't smell too good.
Backyard Blaster - 4-4-2004 at 16:05
I've also noticed that any materials near the detonated AP, tend to retain the odor for some time (hours or even days, depending on how close
they were). Maybe it's the result of trace acid in the final product or something.
chemoleo - 10-4-2004 at 17:22
Indeed, I noticed the same, HMTD and AP both leave a smell that is very distinct - not entirely unpleasant.
Obvioulsly reaction is not 100% complete, else you wouldnt smell anything.
Obvious candidates for those products are HCN, CO, and derivatives, plus (less likely) candidates such as CH2O, NH3 (and derivatives) etc.
Nonethless I cant think of any products that would leave this slightly pungent, charged (I can't find a better word) odour...