Abstract: In the inventive shaped charge, the main charge and the propagating charge are held together solely by the barrier. This union is possible (and is distinguished by pronounced freedom from flaws) because the barrier is produced directly in the cavity in which it is to remain and is able to conform with the utmost accuracy to the surfaces of the charges. The barrier is advantageously formed under vacuum. Factors to be considered in the selection of the barrier material are its fluidifiability, its solidification and shrinkage behavior, and its compatibility with the explosive. Suitable barrier materials include single- or two-component foams, casting compounds, resins and adhesives.

Abstract: A process for producing fine-grained .beta.-HMX wherein a solution of .beta.-HMX is treated in a .gamma.-lactone in a temperature range of between 5.degree. and 15.degree. C. with toluene, and the desired fine and very pure .beta.-HMX crystals are precipitated. The resultant crystals have grain sizes of down to 5 .mu.m and exhibit an extremely small proportion of other modifications or forms of HMX. An additional aspect of the process resides in providing the very fine .beta.-HMX with a coating of a thermoplastic polymer. In this procedure, the .beta.-HMX particles, after having been separated from toluene, are made into a slurry in water and combined under agitation at temperatures of between 25.degree. and 60.degree. C. with a solution or suspension or emulsion of the thermoplastic polymer. During this step, granules are formed which can be separated after distillation of the solvent.