Early decomposition chemistry of NTO, (3-Nitro-1,2,4-Triazol-5-One)

The early reaction chemistry of NTO, (3-Nitro-1,2,4-triazol-5-one) induced by, drop weight impact, shock, heat and radiation has been investigated. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy XPS and chemical ionization mass spectrometry CIMS were employed to observe and identify the partial decomposition products in the damaged samples. Several reaction intermediates have been identified, the focus of the reaction being the single nitro group present on this molecule. XPS spectra indicated in all cases the loss of NO2 concentration in response to damage. Additional chemical states were suggested in the XPS N(ls) spectrum by the appearance of a new peak at a binding energy below that of the triazol ring nitrogens. Mass spectrometry provided the molecularly specific information needed to identify molecular species resulting from the decomposition reactions. Relative to the parent NTO molecule, mass peaks were observed that corresponded to the loss of one O atom, an NO fragment, and a HONO.