Characterization of α- and β-RDX Polymorphs in Crystalline Deposits on Stainless Steel Substrates

• DOI: 10.1021/acs.cgd.6b00078
• Publication Date: 2016-06-09T22:15:15Z
• Authors: Amanda M. Figuero...; José L. Ruiz-Caba...; Leonardo C. Pache...; Samuel P. Hernánd...
• Keywords: Energetic material

The highly energetic material (HEM) hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-s-triazine, also known as RDX, has two stable conformational polymorphs at room temperature: α-RDX (molecular conformation of −NO2 groups: axial–axial–equatorial) and β-RDX axial–axial–axial). Both can be formed by deposition on stainless steel substrates using spin coating methodology. is the most crystal form temperature ambient pressure. However, β-RDX, which been reported to difficult obtain in bulk temperature, was readily formed. Reflection–absorption infrared spectroscopy measurements for RDX-coated provided spectral markers that were used distinguish between large surface areas substrates. Raman microspectroscopy employed examine small where intensity proportional height structures RDX. Spectral features interpreted classified principal component analysis (PCA). results from these analyses good correlation with values literature. Conditions generate predominantly crystalline films a function rotational speed obtained. PCA applied predict percentages present experimental samples. Applications obtained suggest modification existing vibrational based libraries defense security applications. Understanding effects polymorphism HEMs will result attainment higher confidence limits detection identification explosives, especially trace or near levels.