| Discussed herein is the synthesis of bis(1,2,4-oxadiazole)bis(methylene) dinitrate, determination of its crystal structure by X-ray diffractometry,
calculations of its explosive performance, and sensitivity measurements. Steps taken to optimize the synthesis process and to improve yields of the
dinitrate are also discussed. Bis(1,2,4-oxadiazole)bis(methylene) dinitrate has a calculated detonation pressure 50% higher than that of TNT. The
dinitrate compound exhibits a relatively high decomposition temperature that is rarely observed for nitrate-based compounds. The dinitrate was found
to have lower sensitivities to impact and friction compared with RDX. It is believed that intramolecular hydrogen bonding observed in the crystal
lattice assists in the relatively high thermal stability and relatively low sensitivity of the material. |
