Abstract: A method of melt casting plastic bonded explosives by:A. forming a uniform binder mixture of the following ingredients(1) from 10 to 30 weight percent of a triblock polymer of the formula A-B-A wherein A represents a polystyrene block and B represents an elastomeric midblock which is selected from the group consisting of polybutadiene, polyisoprene, and polyethylenebutylene; and(2) from 70 to 90 weight percent of a low viscosity oil selected from the group consisting of naphthenic, paraffinic, and olefinic oilsby mixing the ingredients under low-shear conditions at a temperature of from 80.degree. C. to 110.degree. C.;B. mixing an energetic filler into the binder mixture under low shear conditions and at a temperature of from 80.degree. C. to 110.degree. C., provided that the viscosity of the mixture does not exceed 20 kilopoise;C. pouring the energetic filler-binder mixture formed in step B into a mold; andD. cooling energetic filler-binder mixture to form a solid explosive composite.

Abstract: Cap sensitive emulsion explosive compositions comprising a discontinuous aqueous oxidizer salt phase, a continuous carbonaceous fuel phase, and closed cell void containing materials are disclosed which exhibit increased sensitivity, as measured by the 1/2 cartridge air gap sensitivity test, due to a reduced water content in the range of from about 4% to less than about 10% by weight of the emulsion matrix which is used to prepare the composition.

Abstract: Sensitive, low water containing water-in-oil emulsion explosive compositions generally comprise a discontinuous aqueous oxidizer salt phase, a continuous carbonaceous fuel phase, and closed cell void containing materials are disclosed. Increased gap sensitivity, even in the presence of inert salts is achieved by employing an emulsion matrix of reduced water content (less than about 10%) in combination with an amine sensitizing agent and a relatively minor portion of a detonation catalyst, such as copper chloride.