Theoretical studies on the stability, detonation performance and possibility of synthesis of the nitro derivatives of epoxyethane.

Compounds with heterocyclic rings and NO2 groups have drawn much attention as high energy density compounds in recent years. In this study, the nitro derivatives 1-4 of epoxyethane (ETO) were investigated, and their synthetic possibilities in thermodynamics and thermal stability were predicted. The trigger bond for 1, 2 and 3 is the C-C bond, but for 4 it is the C-NO2 bond. The bond dissociation energies (EBDs) were estimated to be 205.40-164.86 kJ mol(-1) and h 50s were 53-126 cm. EBD, h 50 and energy gap all decrease from 1 to 4. A linear relationship exists between the strain energy and the number of the NO2 group. Derivative 2 has a zero oxygen balance and possesses the best detonation properties (D=8.77 km s(-1) and P=33.88 GPa) as a single explosive. Derivatives 3 and 4 used as oxidizers in the composite explosives of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) produce very good detonation performance (D=9.36 km s(-1), P=40.15 GPa and I s = 281.56 s for 3/RDX, and D=9.45 km s(-1), P=41.04 GPa and I s=280.34 s for 4/RDX). The intermolecular hydrogen bonding and dispersion interactions of 3/RDX and 4/RDX show that the compatibilities of these composites are acceptable.