Optimal Synthesis Parameters and Characteristics of High Explosive RDX Synthesized Using 1,3,5‐Triacetylhexahydro‐1,3,5‐triazine (TRAT) as Nitration Precursor

ABSTRACT 1,3,5‐Trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazinane (RDX) is one of the most widely used nitramine explosives in military applications due to its high energy density, excellent stability, and good compatibility with other chemical materials. However, conventional RDX production involves the nitration of hexamethylenetetramine, posing significant safety, health, and environmental hazards. Therefore, novel synthesis methods and manufacturing processes have attracted considerable scientific and industrial interest. This study investigated the optimal parameters and characteristics of RDX synthesized using TRAT as the nitration precursor and an HNO 3 /P 2 O 5 mixture as the nitrating agent. Taguchi experimental design method was employed to optimize the synthesis parameters for maximum RDX yield. The synthesized product was characterized by SEM, PSA, NMR, FTIR, XRD, STA TG‐DSC, and HPLC, while its sensitivities were evaluated using BAM Fallhammer, friction, and small‐scale electrostatic spark sensitivity tests. Taguchi analysis identified the optimal parameters as HNO 3 /TRAT weight ratio of 11:1, HNO 3 /P 2 O 5 weight ratio of 3:1, reaction temperature of 65°C, and reaction time of 5 min. Under these conditions, the RDX yield reached 92.3%, with a purity of 99.8%. Scale‐up experiments produced similar results, confirming the feasibility of batch production. The impact, friction, and electrostatic spark sensitivities of the synthesized RDX were 4.70 J, 144 N, and 176 mJ, respectively.