Abstract: The invention describes the synthesis of novel mono-amine and di-amine derivatives of hexa-nitro-hexaazaisohexawurtzitane (CL-20). The synthesis is affected by the novel use of fluoroacylating compounds to protect the secondary amine groups of acylated precursors to CL-20 against nitrolysis. In so doing the mono-amine and di-amine derivatives of CL-20 are rendered and which in turn may be subsequently utilized as intermediates to generate further novel derivatives with differing physical and chemical properties to the parent compound. Formula (I), wherein: —X?H, and Y?H or NO2.

Abstract: The invention concerns novel cytosine based modules and in particular their application in linear multiple hydrogen bonded arrays to form supramolecular polymers of the formula (II): and the use of these in supramolecular materials.

Abstract: This invention describes the synthesis and use of novel energetic poly(phosphazene) materials suitable for binding high explosives. These materials may also be used as explosives in their own right. The materials possess high energy density and are highly amenable to chemical modification thereby allowing for modification to the physical properties of the material. In particular the tacky and rubbery nature of these materials makes them ideal for use as binder and co-binder materials.

Abstract: The invention describes the synthesis of novel mono-amine and di-amine derivatives of hexa-nitro-hexaazaisohexawurtzitane (CL-20). The synthesis is effected by the novel use of fluoroacylating compounds to protect the secondary amine groups of acylated precursors to CL-20 against nitrolysis. In so doing the mono-amine and di-amine derivatives of CL-20 are rendered and which in turn may be subsequently utilised as intermediates to generate further novel derivatives with differing physical and chemical properties to the parent compound. Formula (I), wherein: X?H, and Y?H or NO2.

Abstract: A continuous process for producing nitratoalkyl-substituted cyclic ethers which consists of (a) cocurrently mixing a stream of N.sub.2 O.sub.5 and a stream of a hydroxyalkyl-substituted cyclic ether each dissolved in an inert organic solvent, followed by (b) rapidly separating the nitric acid and nitratoalkyl coproducts before they can react together to rupture the ether ring. Step (b) is conveniently performed by quenching the product stream within approximately 15 seconds of its formation, in a basic aqueous solution into which the nitric acid is transferred from the organic phase and is neutralized. Examples of products which may be prepared by this process are nitratoalkyl-substituted oxiranes and oxetanes.

Abstract: A method of preparing a nitrate ester of an epoxy alcohol, which consists of reacting an epoxy alcohol with N.sub.2 O.sub.5 in an inert solvent at a temperature of -10.degree. C. to -40.degree. C., followed by quenching the reaction mixture in aqueous solution. Quenching separates the nitric acid and nitrate ester coproducts into aqueous and organic phases respectively to prevent subsequent reaction between the two. Reaction between the nitric acid coproduct and epoxy alcohol reagent to produce acyclic contaminants is supressed by adding the epoxy alcohol to excess N.sub.2 O.sub.5, thereby rapidly converting available alcohol to nitrate ester.

Abstract: A relatively fast process for producing HNS from trinitrotoluene (TNT) in high yield consists of oxidizing TNT with an oxidizing transition metal compound within a polar aprotic solvent having a weak base, such as an alkali metal carboxylate, dissolved therein. The amount of transition metal compound used is typically at least one mole per mole of TNT. An especially preferred transition metal compound for use in the present process is cupric chloride.

Abstract: A process for the manufacture of 2,2', 4,4', 6,6-hexanitrostilbene (HNS) from dipicrylethane (DPE) or trinitrotoluene (TNT) which consists of oxidizing DPE or TNE substrate in the presence of an aprotic solvent and a basic salt of a carboxylic acid. The acid preferably consists of an ammonium or an alkali metal salt of a monocarboxylic or a dicarboxylic acid. The reaction step consists of heating the substrate and salt dissolved in the solvent to between 15.degree. and 50.degree. C., and contacting the reaction mixture with dry air or oxygen for up to 2 hours. The HNS product is precipitated out by quenching the reaction mixture in acidified water, and is optionally purified by washing first in methanol and then in acetone.