TEX (explosive)

TEX (chemical name 4,10-dinitro-2,6,8,12-tetraoxa-4,10-diazatetracyclo[5.5.0.05,9.03,11]-dodecane) is a dense (ρ = 1.985 g cm−3) nitramine high explosive, that derives from the very powerful and sensitive high explosive CL-20. Though related to CL-20 in that is shares the same cage structure, TEX is more easily synthesized in good yield from inexpensive starting materials.[1] Unlike CL-20, TEX is friction insensitive, bears a low impact sensitivity, and possesses a very low shock sensitivity and large critical diameter, making it an interesting explosive filler for insensitive munitions.[2] Its systematic name, 4,10-dinitro-2,6,8,12-tetraoxa-4,10-diazatetracyclo[5.5.0.05,9.03,11]-dodecane derives from its tetracyclic structure.

TEX
Names
IUPAC name
4,10-Dinitro-2,6,8,12-tetraoxa-4,10-diazatetracyclo[5.5.0.05,9.03,11]-dodecane
Identifiers
3D model (JSmol)
Properties
C6H6N4O8
Molar mass 262.134 g·mol−1
Appearance Colorless solid
Density 1.985 g/cm3
Explosive data
Shock sensitivity Low
Friction sensitivity Low
Detonation velocity 8500 m/s
RE factor 1.70
Hazards
252 °C (486 °F; 525 K)
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
Infobox references

Synthesis and production

Unlike CL-20, which requires a cumbersome and even costly procedure, TEX is obtained in moderate yield (40 wt.-%) in a one-pot synthesis from 1,4-diformyl-2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxypiperazine (DFTHP) and mixed acid (H2SO4/HNO3). The DFTHP undergoes proton-catalyzed hydrolysis and yields glyoxal which reacts as with an intermediate to give TEX.[2]

Formation of TEX from DFTHP

Performance

Based on the Kamlet-Jacobs method, the formal idealistic detonation of TEX

C6H6N4O8 → 3 H2O(g) + 2CO2 + CO + 3 C(gr) + 2 N2

at ambient temperature and density of TEX (1.985 g/cm3) yields a detonation velocity of 8170 m/s and a CJ pressure of 31.4 GPa. Calculations with advanced computer codes like EXPLO and CHEETAH call for even higher detonation velocity but about similar values for the detonation pressure definitely superseding insensitive high explosive NTO. Experimental determination with plastic bonded formulations at high theoretical maximum density exceed the predicted detonation pressures but fall a little short with regards to the detonation velocity if the charge diameter is below 90 mm.[2]

Sensitivity

TEX is not friction sensitive and requires some 40 Joules energy to react in the BAM impact tester. In the autoignition test it yields a mild burn response at 252 °C onset temperature. TEX is also mildly shock sensitive in the Large Scale Gap Test (LSGT).[2]

Toxicity

TEX has a similar water solubility as RDX and hence will be equally mobile in soil and groundwater. However, in comparison to insensitive explosive NTO, which is highly soluble in water (16 g/l), it should pose a lower level of concern when considering the environmental effects of unexploded or partially exploded charges. Preliminary investigation of the effects of TEX on daphnia and cell cultures show slightly lower toxicity than RDX.[2]

Application

Though known since 1990 [3] TEX is still an experimental explosive. However, given its large critical diameter and low shock sensitivity, it is an ideal candidate for insensitive large-calibre ammunition such as general-purpose bombs, artillery shells, torpedo- and depth charges.

See also

References
  1. A. T. Nielsen Polycyclic Amine Chemistry, in G. A. Olah, D. R. Squire, Chemistry of Energetic Materials (Eds.) Academic Press, 1991, p. 110-111
  2. Koch, Ernst-Christian (2015). "TEX - 4,10-Dinitro-2,6,8,12-tetraoxa-4,10-diazatetracyclo[5.5.0.05,9.03,11]-dodecane - Review of a Promising High Density Insensitive Energetic Material". Propellants, Explosives, Pyrotechnics. 40 (3): 374–387. doi:10.1002/prep.201400195. ISSN 0721-3115.
  3. H. Boyer, Joseph; T. Ramakrishnan, Vayalakkavoor; Vedachalam, Murugappa (1990). "4,10-Dinitro-2,6,8,12-tetraoxa-4,10-diazatetracyclo[5.5.0.05,9.03,11]-dodecane". Heterocycles. 31 (3): 479. doi:10.3987/COM-89-5192. ISSN 0385-5414.
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