LOW VULNERABILITY PROPELLANTS

Abstract

This invention record describes the production of a low vulnerability propellant (LOVA) ingredients utilizing mixtures of alkyl nitratoethyl nitramines (alkyl NENAs) and/or bis(2-nitroxyethyl)nitramine (DINA) with nitrocellulose. Described compositions provide lower freezing points and decreases sensitivity while maintaining or surpassing output realized with currently used nitroglycerins/nitrocellulose mixtures. A process to provide for the production of desired mixtures of alkyl NENAs with each other or with DINA in a safe, cost-effective co-nitration process is disclosed. The process involves mixing together predetermined amounts of precursors for each of alkyl NENAs and/or DINA to be present in the final mix. Nitrating the precursors followed by a catalyst reaction, wash and neutralization step.

Source: Google Patents

35 USC §181 Secrecy Order

Inventor

• 1ROCCO G. LUTZ