Manufacture and Material Properties of Explosives

On successful completion of the course the student will have demonstrated:

• an understanding of the principles involved in the introduction of nitro groups into molecules
• an awareness of the current manufacturing processes for common primary, secondary explosives and the current manufacturing processes for gun propellants and rocket propellant grains
• an understanding of the principles of ordnance.

Chemistry of the Synthesis of Explosive Molecules

• Basic chemistry of nitration
• Synthesis examples of LA/LS, TNT, RDX, NC, NG
• Basic stability/ compatibility.

Material Science of Explosive Materials

• Basic hazard/performance properties
• Crystal properties
• Binder properties
• Mechanical properties
• Damage mechanism, vibration, shock.

Engineering of the Manufacture of Explosives and Propellants

• Filling processes of explosive & propellants
• Plant design, safety
• Quality control.