Sciencemadness Discussion Board

Burning ETN PBX

Rocinante - 28-6-2019 at 14:09

Has anyone tried burning a larger amount of ETN PBX (10 g+) to confirm that a DDT or very fast deflagration does not happen?

Even very small samples of ETN (20 mg) heated on an aluminium foil will melt and explode - loudly! Yes, on open air.

Can the low melting point of ETN lead to a different outcome than with a PETN PBX?

[Edited on 28-6-2019 by Rocinante]

MineMan - 28-6-2019 at 17:34

But the ETN does not do that when heated fast... correct? With large quantities it might not ddt one time and might the other. When energetic become closer and closer to the activation energy, it’s unpredictable..

Even an AN truck exploded a few months ago, and it was not mixed with anything, other then what ever the flames mixed it with.

So, even if it didn’t DDT it still would not be trusted... I say this mainly in regards to ETN.

wessonsmith - 28-6-2019 at 19:24

Quote: Originally posted by Rocinante  
Has anyone tried burning a larger amount of ETN PBX (10 g+) to confirm that a DDT or very fast deflagration does not happen?

Even very small samples of ETN (20 mg) heated on an aluminium foil will melt and explode - loudly! Yes, on open air.

Can the low melting point of ETN lead to a different outcome than with a PETN PBX?

[Edited on 28-6-2019 by Rocinante]


I did exactly that. 75g in container with 5/8in hole on one side. Burned like a rocket motor, slowish burn. Used American Visco fuse to ignite it. 12% HTPB 88% ETN. FYI it was under water but that shouldn't matter.

[Edited on 29-6-2019 by wessonsmith]

Herr Haber - 1-7-2019 at 05:11

Quote: Originally posted by Rocinante  


Even very small samples of ETN (20 mg) heated on an aluminium foil will melt and explode - loudly! Yes, on open air.

[Edited on 28-6-2019 by Rocinante]


It can doesnt mean it will.
If you drop 20mg on a 300 degrees plate I have no doubt it'll detonate. Over the course of an hour... not so sure.

C4 has been used by troops to light fires and heat MRE's
The only danger reported by grunts was the fumes.