Abstract: The invention disclosed is an improved process for the preparation of hydroxy-terminated aliphatic polyesters having alkyl substituents, such as glycidyl azide polymer. The improved process involves formation of the polymer in a single step starting from epichlorohydrin monomer. The reaction is effected in a suitable polar organic solvent at elevated temperature for 15 to 24 hours.

Abstract: The invention comprises a novel preparation of energetically substituted diether compounds and novel diether compounds not previously reported. In one embodiment certain isomeric forms of dibromoalkanes are converted to corresponding isomers of bromoalkyl trifluoromethanesulfonate esters by reaction with silver trifluoromethanesulfonate (triflate) in a variety of solvents. The triflate substituent in the bromoalkyl triflate esters is then easily displaced by alcohols, including non-nucleophilic ones such as those that contain nitro. The intermediates are similarly reacted to make energetic diethers, selectively under mild conditions. The energetically substituted diether compounds are particularly useful as energetic curatives and plasticizers for rocket propellant binders as well as stable solid oxidizers and industrial explosives.