Crystallization of Energetic Materials with Limited Solubility
Navy SBIR FY2011.2


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2011.2
Topic No.: N112-129
Topic Title: Crystallization of Energetic Materials with Limited Solubility
Proposal No.: N112-129-1223
Firm: NALAS Engineering Services Inc.
20 STONEWALL ROAD
Salem, Connecticut 06420
Contact: Jerry Salan
Phone: (860) 861-3691
Abstract: The energetic material community has a need to produce energetic materials in varying particle sizes and morphologies. Control of particle and morphology allows the formulator to investigate various aspects of processing and performance associated with the energetic material. Unfortunately, recrystallization of energetic materials to achieve the desired physical characteristics can prove to be a challenge. Some classes of energetic materials show little or no solubility in any traditional solvents; others have limited solubility in solvents predicted to demonstrate favorable morphology. The challenge is identifying solvents that provide sufficient solubility for crystallization while producing a favorable morphology. It is proposed that innovative models and experimental methods be developed to identify novel solvents for specific energetic molecule crystallizations. The models will predict the solvent systems suitable for specific materials resulting in desired morphology.
Benefits: The objectives of the proposed work comprise a novel, scientific approach to selecting appropriate solvents for crystallization/re-crystallization of highly energetic materials. The benefit is obtaining energetics with desireable morphology and particle size for use in explosive and propellant formulations to improve processing and performance characteristics of end items.

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