Preparation of low hygroscopicity ADN-based energetic composite microspheres and their performance study

In order to reduce the hygroscopicity of ammonium dinitramide (ADN), four different ADN/nitrocellulose (NC) samples were prepared from acetone solutions using electrostatic spraying, with the concentrations of 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 mg ml−1. The morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, and the samples with regular morphology and uniform size were examined by x-ray powder diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry to investigate the crystal structure and obtain their thermal decomposition properties. Additionally, the mechanical sensitivity and hygroscopicity of the microspheres were also obtained from these studies. The ADN/NC energetic complexes prepared at a concentration of 5 mg ml−1 were found to be spherical, regular in shape, and uniform in size. The apparent activation energy and the critical temperature for thermal explosion were found to be reduced. The impact sensitivities were comparable to those of the raw material, whereas the friction sensitivities were enhanced. Water absorption tests showed that the moisture absorption of the raw ADN was 32.12%, and that of the ADN/NC sample after coating was 3.75%. The moisture absorption of the prepared samples was significantly reduced.