Preparation and Characterization of CL-20/EPDM by a Crystal Refinement and Spray Drying Method

A 2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitro-2,4,6,8,10,12-hexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) based mixed explosive was prepared by a spray drying method using CL-20 suspended in hexane containing EPDM rubber (ethylene-propylene-diene monomer), and made into a stable suspension. The samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and their thermal stability and impact sensitivity were also measured. The results showed that the ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer rubber (EPDM) can be successfully coated on to the CL-20 crystal surface. Compared to refinement-spray CL-20, the impact sensitivity of CL-20/EPDM was significantly reduced. The characteristic drop height was increased from 28.12 to 39.78 cm. The thermal stability was better than refinement-spray CL-20.