US3899374A

US3899374A - Calcium nitrate explosive composition

Info

Publication number: US3899374A
Application number: US456083A
Authority: US
Inventors: Thomas E Sylkhouse
Original assignee: Dow Chemical Co
Current assignee: Dow Chemical Co
Priority date: 1974-03-29
Filing date: 1974-03-29
Publication date: 1975-08-12
Anticipated expiration: 1992-08-12
Also published as: SE7406873L; BR7404189A; NL7406912A; JPS50148514A; ZA743305B; DE2424886A1; FR2272052A1

Abstract

An explosive composition is provided containing calcium nitrate as the predominate inorganic oxidizing component, a water miscible organic fuel and water.

Description

United States Patem Sylkhouse Aug. 12, 1975 CALCIUM NITRATE EXPLOSIVE [56] References Cited COMPOSITION UNITED STATES PATENTS [75] Inventor: Th mas y us M d an 3,660,181 5/1972 Clay etal 149/41 x Mich. 3,713,917 1 1973 Cook et a1... 149 41 x 3,787,254 1/1974 Cook et a1. 149/41 x [73] AssgmwZ h c'femlcal Company 3,816,191 6 1974 Wilson et a1 149 41 Midland, Mich.

[22] Filed: Mar. 29, 1974 Primary ExaminerStephen J. Lechert, Jr. pp NO: 456,083 Attorney, Agent, or Fzrm-Bruce M. Kanuch 57 ABSTRACT [52] US. Cl. 149/2; 149/21; 149/41;

49 4 149 0; 149 An explosive composition is provided containing cal- 51 1111. C1 C06b 19/00 eium nitrate as the predominate inorganic oxidizing 58 Field of Search 149/46, 60, 41, 2, 61, component, a Water miscible Organic fuel and Water- 23 Claims, 8 Drawing Figures PATENTED AUG 1 2W5 3, 899 374 SHEET 2 /00%Fue/ /00 NIL/41 N03 PATENTEU AUG 1 1975 SHEET /0o Fue/ /00 Formam/ae PATENTED AUG 1 2 I975 SHEET /00 7a E/hyleney/yco/ 2 ON 4 my N I00 N 4/VO CALCIUM NITRATE EXPLOSIVE COMPOSITION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Inorganic oxidizing salt based explosive compositions are well-known in the art. Most of these compositions contain ammonium nitrate as the major inorganic oxidizing salt constituent. Certain other inorganic oxidizing salts have been thought of as less potent or so sensitive and unstable as to be dangerous. In some compositions a portion of the ammonium nitrate has been replaced by other inorganic oxidizing salts such as, for example, sodium nitrate, calcium nitrate, certain perchlorates and other inorganic oxidizing salts. These optional inorganic oxidizing salts have been employed for various purposes, such as economy, fluidizing properties, sensitivity enhancement and the like.

These inorganic oxidizing salt based explosive compositions vary from dry to slurry mixtures containing water and/or other liquids, such as glycols, fuel oils and the like. A typical dry mix known in the art is ANFO which contains ammonium nitrate and fuel oil. Typical slurry explosive compositions contain inorganic oxidizing salts, normally a major portion comprising ammonium nitrate, water, a fuel and/or sensitizer and a thickening agent.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,660,181 and 3,713,971 teach compositions which have a fudge point (i.e. salts begin to solidify and the composition thickens) which is above the borehole temperature so that the composition solidifies in the borehole or package. To accomplish this result compositions are prepared at an elevated temperature (e.g. 70C [158F], col. 3, line 7 of 3,660,181 or at least 30C [86F], col. 3, line 35 of 3,713,917, preferably higher, i.e., 55C [131F], col. 5, line 17 of 3,713,917). These systems are designed to firm up (i.e. have a fudge point of about 50C [122F] to about 35C [95F]. Although this type of composition may be desired in many special circumstances it would be most beneficial if compositions could be prepared at ambient temperatures, e.g. 75F, which were very mobile or even substantially completely fluid and which remain fluid down to temperatures as low as F or lower. Surprisingly it has been discovered that not only can compositions be prepared which have the above described fluidity characteristic but that the compositions remain sensitive to detonation by a small high explosive booster at such low temperatures even without the presence of sensitizers such as powdered metals, self explosives and the like, even though these constituents can be employed if desired. The present invention concerns such compositions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The composition of the present invention comprises, as percent by weight at least about 50 percent of the following mixture: from about 51 to about 85 percent of a mixture of inorganic oxidizing salts consisting essentially of from about 53 to about 95 percent, of calcium nitrate, and the balance consisting essentially of ammonium nitrate; from about 9 to about 35 percent, of at least one water miscible organic fuel and from about 5 to about 21 percent H O, the balance, if any, of the composition comprising at least one additional fuel or sensitizer in addition to said water miscible organic fuel, density control agents, gelling or thickening agents and the like. The amount of water of hydration, if any, associated with the calcium nitrate is included in the total amount of water present. The calcium nitrate content is based on anhydrous calcium nitrate though other than anhydrous calcium nitrate can be employed to prepare the composition. Within the above described ranges it is desirable to adjust the individual constituents of the mixture so that the resulting mixture has an oxygen balance ranging from about +20 to about 8 grams of oxygen per 100 grams of total mix. In addition, the weight ratio of the water miscible organic fuel to calcium nitrate should range from about 0.80 to about 0.20.

Sufficient gaseous voids should be provided in the composition to provide a bulk density therein ranging from about 0.80 to about 1.40 gm/cc.

Oxygen balance as employed herein means the amount of excess or paucity of oxygen (0 expressed as grams or grams of oxygen per 100 grams of total composition when combusted where the combustion products are taken to be CO H O, N and CaO. If a composition has a negative oxygen balance, there will be insufficient oxygen to combine with all of the hydro gen and carbon and H and CO will be formed upon detonation. If a composition has a positive oxygen balance nitrous oxide compounds will be formed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 graphically illustrates certain data from Example 7.

FIG. 2 graphically illustrates certain data from Example 10.

FIGS. 3-5 graphically illustrate certain data from Example 11.

FIGS. 6-8 graphically illustrate certain data from Example l2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Preferably the composition of the present invention comprises, as percent by weight, at least about percent of the following mixture: from about 55 to about of a mixture of inorganic oxidizing salts consisting essentially of from about 53 to about percent calcium nitrate, and the balance consisting essentially of ammonium nitrate; from about 10 to about 27 percent of a water miscible organic fuel selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, formamide, methanol, glycerol, diethylene glycol, or ethanol and mixtures thereof; and fromabout 7 to about 20 percent of water. The mixture preferably has an oxygen balance ranging from about 0 to +15 grams for optimum sensitivity. The above four constituents should be provided in the designated weight proportions to each other even though other constituents may be included in the total composition. Formamide is especially preferred because of its beneficial effects on both the low temperature sensitivity and fluidity of the composition. Thus, in a more preferred composition at least a portion (i.e. at least about 50% by weight) of the water miscible organic fuel comprises formamide. For economic reasons a portion of water miscible organic fuel may comprise, in addition to formamide. other fuels such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, methanol and the like.

The optimum weight ratio of the water miscible organic fuel to calcium nitrate will depend on the particular fuel employed. For example if the fuel is formamide. the weight ratio of formamide to calcium nitrate preferably ranges from 0.30 to about 0.70. If the fuel is ethylene glycol, the weight ratio of ethylene glycol to calcium nitrate should range from about 0.25 to about 0.70.

Water miscible organic fuels which can be employed in the composition comprise organic compounds and mixtures of compounds which are miscible in aqueous solutions of calcium nitrate. Examples of groups of organic compounds which can be employed include certain amines, including primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary amines; amides; alcohols including both monoand polyhydric alcohols; alcohol ethers; and low molecular weight carbohydrates (saccharides and polysaccharides). Specific compounds which can be employed include, for example, formamide; glycerol; acetic acid, ethylene glycol monomethyl ether; methanol; ethanol; diethylene glycol; hexamethylene tetramine; hexamethylene tetramine monoand dinitrate; acetamide, ethylene glycol; propylene glycol; urea; thiourea; butylamine, metyl amine, ethylamine, thio diglycol; mono-, diand triethanol amines; and mixtures of compatible compounds. Water soluble polymers may also be employed as additional fuels and in some instances also serve as thickening agents. Such polymers include, for example, polyamides, celluloses, galactomammans, e.g., guar, polyols, polyalkylamines, polyethyleneimines and other similar water miscible polymers.

By miscible it is meant that the quantity of defined fuel in said mixtures is substantially completely mixable in the quantity of aqueous calcium nitrate solution present in said mixtures without separation of two liquid phases. Organic fuels which are solid at room temperature will normally produce a thicker, less fluid blasting agent than those organic fuels which are fluid at about room temperature (e.g. 6874F). Preferably an organic fuel is employed which when present in the indicated percent range is completely soluble in the aqueous oxidizer phase.

Inorganic oxidizing salts other than calcium nitrate and ammonium nitrate which can be employed in minor amounts include, for example, alkaline earth metal and alkali metal nitrates, sulfates, chlorates, and perchlorates, and specifically, sodium nitrate, ammonium perchlorate, barium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, sodium sulfate, sodium perchlorate, potassium perchlorate and the like. It has been found that certain of these inorganic oxidizing salts enhance certain explosive characteristics of the calcium nitrate mixture while others may hamper certain explosive characteristics but are advantageous for other reasons. For example, some salts may be employed to balance oxygen at the expense of some other feature such as sensitivity. It has been found that ammonium nitrate tends to increase the sensitivity of the calcium nitrate explosive to a certain degree. Sodium nitrate tends to desensitize the calcium nitrate explosive when employed in amounts greater than about 30 percent by weight of the total composition but it may be employed to adjust the oxygen balance of the compositions. Thus when additional inorganic oxidizing salts are employed it should be determined before hand what effect the salt will have on the final explosive. The inorganic oxidizing salts may be employed in particulate form, in solution or both. Ammonium nitrate is preferred as the additional inorganic oxidizing salt because of its enhancing effect on sensitivity and fluidity within certain prescribed quantity limits.

Supplemental sensitizers and/or fuels in addition to those previously described can also be employed in the present composition to alter or improve certain explosive characteristics of the composition. Those sensitizers and/or fuels normally employed in inorganic oxidizing salt based explosive compositions known in the art can be employed in the present invention. These fuels and sensitizers comprise, for example, metals, selfexplosives and non-explosive water insoluble carbonaceous or other fuels such as sulfur and mixtures of two or more of these materials. They are employed in amounts sufficient to enhance the base explosive compositions in the manner desired. For example, metal may be employed in an amount to provide a weight ratio of metal to the base composition of up to l /1 and more. The particle size distribution of the metal particles will effect certain characteristics of the blasting agent in a manner well known in the art. Finer metal, e.g. minus 200 mesh (US. Standard Sieve Series), e.g. paint grade aluminum tends to sensitize the explosive composition to detonation, i.e. the composition can be initiated to detonation with a smaller less powerful initiator while coarser metal tends to increase the power of the composition when exploded, but with less sensitizing effect. For example, the sensitivity of the composition can be enhanced by adding from about 2 to about 10 percent by weight of paint grade aluminum to the mixture. The use of such specific size metals are taught in US. Pat. Nos. 3,307,986 and 3,432,371, the teachings thereof being specifically incorporated herein by reference.

Particulate metals which can be employed include, for example, aluminum, magnesium, iron, silicon, titanium, aluminum alloys, magnesium alloys, ferrosilicon, silicon carbide, ferrophosphorous, zinc, boron and other like particulate metals which sensitize and/or function as a fuel in the explosive. Of particular importance are the light metals, e.g. aluminum, magnesium, beryllium alloys thereof and the like. Generally the metals range in size from about 4 to about +325 mesh US Standard Sieve Series, although as shown in the examples -325 mesh metal can be employed to en hance certain characteristics of the composition. For metals which might react with the composition certain inhibitors known in the explosives art may be employed to stabilize the compositions, e.g., certain phosphorous containing compounds and fatty acids.

Self-explosives as used herein refer to those nitrated organic substances which, by themselves, are generally recognized in the art as an explosive and which can usually be detonated with a standard blasting cap. Examples of self-explosives which can be employed include organic nitrates, nitro compounds and nit'roamines, such as TNT, pentaerythritoltetranitrate (PETN), cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX), cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine (HMX), tetryl, nitrostarch, and explosive grade nitrocellulose as well as mixtures of the aforesaid and other self-explosives. The self-explosives can be in any of the conventional forms such as flake, pelleted or cyrstalline. '7

Examples of water insoluble carbonaceous nonexplosive fuels and sensitizers include finely divided coal and carbon, solid carbonaceous vegetable products such as corn starch, wood pulp, ivory nut meal and bagasse, organic liquids such as hydrocarbon oils, fuel oils, fatty oils, vegetable oils, and mixtures of two or more of these water insoluble carbonaceous nonexplosive fuels. These fuels may be blended into the water based mix with, for example, a suitable emulsifying agent to produce a water-in-oil or oil-in-water emulsion. They can also be used as a coating for nonsoluble fuels and other additives such as TNT, particulate metals and the like.

Any grade of calcium nitrate, e.g. anhydrous or hydrated may be employed in the present invention. Anhydrous grade, i.e. substantially free from water of hydration or absorbed water, or mono, di, tri, tetra or any other of the hydrated forms may be employed as well as water or organic liquid solutions of the hydrated calcium nitrate. When hydrated calcium nitrate is employed, the water of hydration is considered in calculating the water content of the explosive. Thus the water present in the explosive may come from water of hydration, water may be added separately or a combination of the two can be employed. Thickening and/or gelling agents can also be employed in the present compositions. These agents are employed in amounts to provide thickened, freeflowing pumpable to very stiff practically immobile compositions. The physical characteristics desired depend mainly on the ultimate use of the explosive. For example, in water-containing boreholes very strong gels are desired to prevent a leaching out and erosion of the explosive composition. Gelling and/or thickening agents are employed which will swell and/or can be crosslinked in the liquid system containing dissolved Ca(NO;,) water, and the water soluble organic fuel. Examples of suitable gelling agents include synthetic polymers, e.g., polyacrylamide, polyamines; starches; polysaccharides; flours e.g., wheat flour; galactomannan gums, such as guar, karaya and the like. Specific thickening agents which may be employed include polyalkylene glycol, hydroxyalkyl cellulose, potato starch, wheat starch, corn starch, carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellelose, methyl cellulose, polyethylene amine, carboxy methyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, and the like. It has been found that cellulosic materials, e.g. carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl and ethyl cellulose, and the like, and guar gums are preferred in the present invention. Examples of thickeners which provide thickening and suspending characteristics by physical form include magnesium oxides, asbestos fibers, cotton fibers, glass fibers, wood fibers, and the like.

Various density control agents can also be employed in the present invention. These materials can be employed to decrease the density of the explosive, to sensitize the composition, to alter the energy release of the explosive composition and/or to provide composition which can be more readily exploded under elevated pressures and/or low temperatures. Suitable density control agents include void-containing materials, for example, hollow spheres prepared from metals, clays, glass, thcrmoplastics, and thermosetting resins and other like materials. Specific examples of voidcontaining materials can be found in US. Pat. Nos. 3,456,589, 3,101,288 and 3,773,573, the teachings of these patents being specifically incorporated herein by reference. Also naturally occurring void-containing materials such as ground corn cobs, bagasse, walnut shells and other like materials known in the art can be employed in the explosive. The carbonaceous thickening, gelling and density control agents also provide additional fuel for the explosive composition. Also void or gaseous generating chemicals may be employed to form gaseous voids in situ. Examples of such chemicals include certain nitrites alone or in combination with sulfamic acid, certain sulfamates, carbonates and bicarbonates. Other such void generating compounds include, for example, combinations of carbonates or bicarbonates and acids, e.g. HCl and the like. Also gaseous bubbles may be incorporated into the mix during its manufacture, such as by whipping air into the mix which are stabilized with viscosity building polymers and the like.

The compositions of the present invention range from watery clear fluid substances to very thick masses containing particulates, e.g. particulate inorganic oxidizing salts and/or sensitizers, and/or fuels.

The explosive compositions of the present invention may be prepared in the following manner. The requisite amount of water soluble organic fuel and water are mixed together. Any density control agents which may be employed are then added to this mixture. Particulate materials, e.g. calcium nitrate, inorganic oxidizing salts, metals, etc. are then blended into the liquid mixtures and stirred until a uniform mixture is formed. The thickening agent, preferably dispersed in a dispersing agent, e.g. particulate salts or a water soluble liquid in which the polymer does not swell or swells very slowly, e.g. propylene glycol, is then blended in and the composition stirred until the viscosity becomes sufficient to hold the particulate constituents in suspension.

These compositions are unique in that they are more sensitive to detonation at low temperatures, maintain better fluidity at low temperatures, and can be detonated at higher densities at low temperatures than similar explosives which contain ammonium nitrate as the major inorganic oxidizing salt or calcium nitrate in lesser amounts.

The following examples will facilitate a more complete understanding of the present invention.

In the following examples a thin walled cylindrical polyethylene container about 1- /8 inches in diameter and having a volume capacity of about l67 cc was filled with a test composition having a known density and temperature. The filled container was centered on a cylindrical steel driving plate about 4 inches in diameter and inch thick (except as otherwise noted herein). The driving plate in turn was centered on the top of a 1- /2 inch diameter by 3 inch long cylindrical cast lead block. The lead book was placed on top of a 6 inch diameter by 1- /2 inch thick cylindrical steel base plate which was placed on the ground. A detonator and high explosive booster charge was placed on top of the polyethylene container and the test composition detonated. The decrease in the height of the lead block was then measured.

EXAMPLE 1 26 compositions (Table I) were prepared containing in different proportions either formamide, ethylene glycol, or 50/50 weight ratio formamide/ethylene glycol mixture as the water soluble organic fuel, ammonium nitrate, fertilizer grade calcium nitrate and water. Each of these compositions was tested in the standard lead block detonation test, as previously defined, employing a 37 gram 50/50 pentolite booster (a cast mixture of equal parts of pentaerythritol tetranitrate and trinitrotoluene) and a N0. 6 blasting cap as a detonator. The densities of the compositions were controlled by the addition of plastic microballoons which had a bulk density of about 0.03 gm/cc.

The samples to be tested were prepared by blending the water, fuel, plastic balloons and ground NH NO and Ca(NO with stirring for from 6 to 8 hours. The plastic balloons were added in an amount to provide the density desired in each test. About 1.5 parts by weight (per 100 parts of total mix) of carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose gelling agent was blended with about 3 parts by weight of propylene glycol and this blended into the slurry. The thickening agent and propylene glycol which were added are characteristic of water soluble organic fuels which can be employed in the present invention. The amount of such additional fuel was taken into consideration when determining the scope of the present invention as defined herein. The compositions were allowed to thicken to a rubbery consistency and then placed in the lead block containers.

An attempt was first made to detonate each composicompositions Nos. 1-26 as percent by weight. In each series fertilizer grade calcium nitrate prills (CNF) were employed. A chemical analysis of CNF showed =4.5% ammonium nitrate, -14.4% water. -80.57c calcium nitrate with the balance being inert.

Tables 11 V11 show the results of the lead block tests in Series l-6 as defined above. AH represents the deformation (inches of the lead block for each shot. X represents the lead block deformation divided by the density of the composition tested. This factor allows for the comparison of AH valves where the compositions being compared did not have equal densities, since for fully propagating explosives the deformation for like volumes of explosive is proportional to the densities of the explosives.

TABLE 1 Basic Compositions Tested, as Percent by Weight Water Soluble tion at a temperature of 45F. 1f the lead block was not compoSition Organic d Nov Fuel NH4NO3 CNF eformed more than about 0.5 inch at that temperature a like composition was then usually tested at 60F. If, 1 35 50 15 however, the lead block was deformed more than about 3 g8 0.5 inch at 45F, a like composition was then tested at Z; 35 45 32F and if a deformation occurred there, a like com- 25 5 g 10 55 position was then tested at 10F. The 0.5 inch deforma- 2 ,2 g tion was an arbitrarily chosen cut off point based on 8 g 39 34 previous observations that when a composition failed g 1 to give such a deformation it also usually failed at a 11 27 9 64 lower temperature. Six series of tests were run; employ- 3O 12 27 O 73 13 19 58 23 mg 26 different base composltions. The Ser1es differed 14 19 4g 33 from each other first, in that in

Series

1, 2 and 3 formg; g; amide was employed as the fuel and in Series 4, 5 and 17 19 18 63 6 ethylene glycol was employed as the fuel. Secondly, 18 19 8 73 Series 2, and 3, 5 and 6 differed from

Series

1 and 4 1? 3 3 3, in that an additional amount of water above that pres- 21 10 5O ent as hydration of the calcium nitrate was added to the 8 28 compositions (Series 2 and 5, 5

percent additive H

0, 24 10 20 70 and Series 3 and 5, 10 percent additive H O). i8 g 28 Table 1 shows the constituents contained in base 40 7 TABLE 11 eries No. 1. Formamide Fuel Base Composition 10F 32F F F No. AH Density X AH Density X AH Density X AH Density X 1 0 1.12 0 0 1.13 0 2 0 1.16 0 0 1.16 0 3 0 1.14 0 0 1.14 0 4 0 1.15 0 .14 1.13 .123 5 0 1.19 0 .98 1.19 .823 6 0 1.23 0 0 1.25 0 7 0 1.20 0 0 1.20 0 x 0 1.18 0 0 1.18 0 t 0 1.22 0 .79 1.22 .647 9A .11 1.17 .094 10 .61 1 1x .52 .115 1. .708 1.08 1.19 .907 11 .73 l 25 58 .85 1.21 .702 .95 1.25 .759 12 0 1.22 0 .72 1.25 .575 .86 1. 3 .699 13 0 1.16 0 0 1.17 0 14 0 1.18 0 .83 1.17 .709 MA 0 1.17 0 15 .55 1.11) .462 .86 1.20 .716 16 .52 1.24 .42 .83 1.27 .653 .94 1.23 .764 17 .40 1.27 .32 .48 1.27 .377 .77 1.27 606 18 .35 1.29 .271 .73 1.27 .574 19 .31 1.24 .250 .48 1.24 .387 20 .64 1.17 .54 .76 1.16 .655 .79 1.15 .686 21 .66 1.17 .564 .78 1.16 .672 21A .74 1.17 .631 22 .08 1.26 .063 .65 1.21 .537 22A .18 1.23 .145 23 0 1.23 0 .58 1.24 .467 23A 0 1.23 0 24 0 1.24 0 0 1.26 0 25 .43 1.26 .341 .54 1.23 .439 25A .47 1.26 .373 26 0 1.46 0 0 1 47 0 As demonstrated by this series of tests many of the compositions exhibited excellent sensitivity and energy as evidenced by the deformation of the lead block even at temperatures as low as 10F. This is even more siging Table VIII. The compositions listed in shot Nos. 48 fall within the scope of the present invention. Shot Nos. 1 and 2 demonstrate the results obtained where ammonium nitrate was the sole oxidizing salt. The composiifi m when it is noted that the compositions Contion in shot No. 3 is similar to a commercially available tained no auxiliary sensitizers and/O fuels, -g-. p ticunmetallized slurry explosive formulation. As demonulate metals. sclfexplosives and the like. The performstrated by these tests certain of the compositions of the anCe of these compositions and some 0f the poorer perpresent invention showed superior energies over the forming COmP I as to Power and ty, 211 other compositions tested and all showed superior peak be improved by the addition of such auxiliary materials e re as demonstrated in some of the following examples. To demonstrate the unique low temperature sensitiv- However, these tests demonstrate the unique improve ity properties of the present invention compositions ment offered by the novel composition because in corresponding to those in shot Nos. 3 and 8 were tested many instances such costly and/or dangerous additives in a standard lead block deformation test as described were unnecessary to obtain powderful explosive hereinbefore. The composition of shot No. 8 detonated at 10F, at a densit of 1.25 rams/cc with a deforma- EXAMPLE 2 y g tion of 0.73 inch while the composition of shot No. 3 In this example certain compositions were tested in failed to detonate in the lead block test even at a lower a standard underwater and a different lead block test de it f 0,93 t 73F Th lower d i d than previously defined herein at normal and low ternhigher temperature favor detonation of explosives. peratures. In the underwater tests the composition to This data shows the superior sensitivity properties of be tested was placed in a tWO gallon pail along With 21 the present composition for low temperature use TABLE VIII Pts. by Wt. Constituents As Shot Wt.

No (NF AN SN2 NH;K H. ,O F EG PG Sugar Gum Lbs ESN Y ET PK 1 (17.8 8.14 11.6 10.5 1.96 22.1 .015 .000 .015 1367 2 73.9 13 11.4 1.7 23.09 .010 .011 .021 13s0 3 69 8 7 l() l 4 l -19 .265 .338 .603 201K 4 00.13 17.12 4.75 18 22.1 2x4 .285 .574 240s.s 5 3 1s 19 21.4 .317 .303 .620 2406.7 (1 57.3 16.3 H l(i.3 20.7 .350 .340 .(190 2575.5 7 57.3 16.3 9.1 16.3 21.5 .319 .293 .012 2417.4 8 s4 9 27 2L2 .328 .3l6 .644 2051.5

AN mmnunium nitrate "SN sodium nitrate "F l'tnmnmidu 'F.(i ethylene glycol PG promlene glycol one-third pound high density booster charge. The pail EXAMPLE 3 was sealed with a lid through which the detonating cord extended. Water resistance was assured by a gasket As a further example of the superior low temperature sealing assembly at the opening where the detonating sensitivity of compositions falling within the scope of cord came through the lid. In the testing, the detonatthe present invention several compositions were preing cord was connected to an initiator and firing line pared containing CNF, formamide, water and ammoand the pail was suspended in a body of water at about nium nitrate. Five compositions were prepared conhalf the depth of a lake (pail placed at about 42.5 feet taining the constituents as parts by weight as set forth beneath the surface ofthe water). The composition was in the following Table lX. The compositions were exploded and the resulting pressure profile from the extested in the previously defined standard lead block test plosion was converted into electrical impulses by a piat 45F, the primer consisting of a 37 gram 50/50 penezoelectric gauge suspended in the water at the same tolite booster. The results of the tests are also tabulated level a known horizontal distance from the explosive. in the Table IX. Each composition varied from compo- The electrical impulses were recorded and converted sition of test No. l in that a quantity of calcium nitrate to the corresponding pressures and from this, peak was replaced by a like weight of ammonium nitrate. pressure, shock energy, bubble energy and the total en- Five percent by weight of water was also employed ergy of the explosive was calculated by methods de over that present in the CNF. The uniqueness of the scribed in Underwater Explosives, R. H. Cole, compositions containing greater proportions of cal- Princeton University Press 1948). In this example and cium nitrate at lower temperatures is shown by the fact Table VIII, peak pressure is designated as PK, the that in shots 3-5, containing at least 55 or more parts shock energy as ESN, the bubble energy as Y, and by weight ammonium nitrate, no detectable lead block the total energy as ET. deformations were produced even though the oxygen The results of testing eight compositions in the underwater test and procedure are set forth in the followbalance appeared to be more favorable at high ammonium nitrate levels.

15 16 TABLE 1x TABLE Xl-Continued Sh t s 166 Wei in Mix B g amp Mix B (30 parts by wt. Formam1de NO Gravity G.M.S. "F AH Form (AN AN H2O (70 P" by C Addinve Parts/Wt. Denslty AH X l i5 7 -5 35 5 Ban NO 11.1 1.11 1.02 0.92 3 L03 43 5 13-11190 1 5 0 1 16 104 090 3 1.16 188 45 0 17 2x 55 5 f 5: 5., 4 1.15 186 45 0 17 13 70 5 5 1.16 188 45 0 17 0 x3 5 TABLE XII 1O EXAMPLE 4 Mi C In this example various compositions were prepared C gt-jfgfig containing CNF. formamide, and water in amounts Additive Parts/Wt. Densit H X within the scope of the present invention. To these I e Control 1.18 0.91 0.77 compositions were added various morgamc salts. while NHNOI! H1 H1 88 0.79 maintaining the ratio of CNF to formamide approxi- NH NO 1.00 0.89 0.82 NI-LNQ, 42.11 1.07 0.90 0.84 mately the same. The coompositlons were tested at a NHNO 667 L04 0485 0.82 temperature of about 70 F in the prevlously defined 101-1 100. 0 107 0x5 0 standard lead block test and AH and X. as defined here- 7 S1 E3 T I inbefore. tabulated for each. The base compositions L I (Mixes A-D). as parts by weight, the additives (parts Qi 218 1 15 0.15 0.13

. h d l f h I d bl k t t I t N;1NO;, 66.7 1.21 0.03 0.025 by we ig t) an resu ts o t e ea 0c es s are se NHNOH 100 L22 Q02 (L025 forth in the fOllOWlng Tables X X111. 1961\10 150 1.3 0.02 0.016

136090.11: 1 1.1 1.07 0.80 0.75 35 Ba( NO 25.0 1.14 0.80 0.70 TABLE X 1311119011): 42.11 1.19 0.79 0.66

Mix A Base Comp (Mix A) (38 parts by wt. Formamide TABLE XI (57 parts by wt. CNF 15 parts by wt. NH,,NO;, 2 Mix D 1 A 0 Additne Pins/Wt Denslt H X Mix D pu s y t. ormumide parts hv wt. CNF 1 1.14 1.06 0.93

525 093 Q83 Additive Pans/Wt. Dens1t v A H X M NO- 111 1.20 0.99 0.83 NziNO: 17.7 1.10 0.91 0.83 Comwl 1.07 0.10 0.093 NuNO. 25.0 1.10 0.92 0.113 NH4NO4 l NuNoI 42.14 1.1. 0.115 0.81 35 NPLNOK 096 19.11 10: 53.8 1.06 0.87 0.82 NH4NO=1 l 9 14 1 0150' 5.25 1.03 0.77 0.75 NPLNOR L14 Q86 C2150: 1 1.1 1.05 0.77 0.74 1 =1 100 1.18 0.73 0.62 NHMO 150.0 1.16 0.71 0.61 1 1111 10 11.1 1.06 0.1 1 0.10 NaNO 25.0 1.04 0.07 0.067 TABLE X1 40 N11190 42.8 1.14 0.04 0.035 1 1111 10 53.8 1. 16 0.03 0.025 100 1.21 0.03 0.0 5 Mix B I, Mix B 30 parts by wt. Formamide 5;}, par by w N 42.1: 1.1 1 0.05 0.045 Additive Parts/Wt. Density A H X 518 L09 0'02 (H) 8 B1 NO; 2 1. 1 1.15 1.1 5 6661161 1.12 0.82 0.73 45 K I (4 NaNO 5.25 1.12 0.142 0.73 NaNO; 11.1 1.18 0.71 0.60 NaNO; 17.7 1.22 0.91 0.75 EXAMPLE 5 N11190 25.0 1.20 0.85 0.71 I NHNO 334 H3 066 058 In this example various additives and combinations of NuNQ, 42.8 1.12 0.47 0.42 o additives were added to a base CNF mixture. The com- 2 positions were tested in a standard lead block test at 'l oi 1 densities ranging from about 1.00 gm/cc to about 1.24 :54:81 82 gm/cc. The constituents in these various compositions. Z 100100 5 5 and lead block data are set forth in the following Tables 1911.190. 150.00 1.014 1.05 0.97 XIV and XV.

TABLE XIV Composition Number Parts by Weight Constitue ms 1 2 3 4 5 h 7 8 9 10 (NF 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 57 Ethylene (H -e61 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Formamitlc 3g NH.NO 10 5 5 5 5 15 Urea 10 KNO 5 10 NuNQ 5 NuSO, 5 10 (NHLJZ so. 5 10 H 0 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Al 5.25 \H 0.02 0.73 0.06 0.1111 0.13 0.80 0.44 0.7x 0.12 0.92 Density 1.14 1.14 1.19 1.14 1.24 1.18 1.21 1.14 1.16 1.00 X 0.017 0.64 0.05 0.77 0.11 0.68 0.36 0.6x 0.10 0.92

Constituents 1 Density X CNF 57 57 Formamide 28 28 NH NO 15 15 NaNQ MgSO (1150. Ferrophosphorous Sulfur Starch Sand Wood Fibers .\H 0.92 Density 1 15 X 0.80

EXAMPLE 6 TABLE XV In this example different water soluble organic fuels were employed while keeping the weight ratio of CNF. 35 of different water soluble organic fuels and mixtures of fuel, water and ammonium nitrate approximately equal. The compositions were tested in the aforemen- Composition No. Parts by Wt.

i5 i5 15 i5 15 tioned lead block test at about 70F. The results of these tests were set forth in the following Table XVl. The results of these tests demonstrate the application such fuels in the preparation of compositions within the scope of the present invention.

TABLE XVl Parts by Weight Booster Density emp. Fuel Fuel (NF AN H O F gnis/ce gms/cc AH X Propylene Glycol 15.4 61.6 15.4 7.7 70, 37 gms 1.45 0.00 0.00

70 1.35 0.05 0.037 70 1.21 0.37 0.31 70 1.15 0.78 0.69 70 1.01s 0.75 0.6) Sorl'titol 15.8 60.0 15.0 9.0 70 1.47 0.02 0.014

1.38 0.03 0.02 1.23 0.66 0.54 1.16 0.140 0.069 1.09 0.83 0.76 Ethylene Glycol 7 7 Propylene Glycol 7.7 61.6 15.4 7.7 70 1.46 0.02 0.014 1.38 0.04 0.029 1.26 0.60 0.48 1.20 0.87 0.73 1.11 0.90 0.81 Parts by Weight Booster Density emp. Fuel Fuel (NF AN H. 1" gins/cc gms/cc W H X Ethylene Glycol 7.7 Glyeerine 7.7 61.6 15.4 7.7 1.45 0.02 0.014 1.34 0.06 0.045 1.23 0.66 0.54 1.16 0.88 0.76 1.08 0.92 0.85 Ethylene Glycol 7.7 'l'rlpropylenc Glycol Methyl-ether 7.7 61.6 15.4 7.7 1.42 0.02 0.014

TABLE XVI CONTINUED Parts by Weight Booster Density emp Fuel Fuel (NF AN H O I- gms/cc gms/cc A H FOI'ITHII'I'IILIC 7.7 Ethylene Glycol 7.7 61.6 15.4 7.7 70 40 gms 1.45 (1.01 (1.007 1.35 (1.02 0.015

1.24 0.14 0.12 1.1-1 (1.74 0.65 1.07 0.79 0.74 Ethylene (ilycol 15.4 61.6 15.4 7.7 1.45 0.01 0.007 1.36 0.0: 0.015

EXAMPLE 7 Several compositions containing the constituents listed below were tested in the aforementioned lead block test at a temperature of about 70F in the manner as defined in the previous examples. Metal was added to some of these compositions and also different water soluble organic fuels were employed. The compositions are listed in the following Table XVII as percent by weight:

TABLE XVII Composition Constituent A B C D E Ethylene Glycol 14.1 12.2 16.4 Form-amide l 14. l 4

Methanol 14. 14 Ca(NO 39.1 33.86 45.6 39.3 39.3 H O 17.2 14.94 20.0 17.3 17.3 Ammonium Nitrate 14.1 12.2 16.4 14.14 14.14 Particulate Aluminum 14.1 24.4 14.14 14.14 Thickener 1.4 2.4 1.6 0.98 0.98

Ca(NO 4H O was employed and the amount of water in the composition takes into account the 4 wa-.

ters of hydration.

The results of the lead block detonation tests are tabulated in the following Table XVIII.

As shown by these data the employment of particulate aluminum greatly increases the sensitivity and power of the explosive composition as indicated by the greater deformations caused by compositions A. B. D and E. With about 24 percent by weight of metal. composition B. there was substantial deformation of the lead block even at a density of about 1.5 gm/cc.

TABLE XVIII To further show the effect of metal two compositions were tested at approximately 3233F in a standard lead block deformation test. The two compositions were identical except that one composition contained 10 parts by weight of particulate aluminum. The compositions. and results of the tests are set forth in the following Table XIX and graphically illustrated in FIG. 5.

As evidenced by this data the addition of particulate metal. as would be expected, increased the sensitivity and strength of the composition.

TABLE XIX Composition A Parts by Wt. Shot Specific Weight Ethylene Ca(NO emp No. Gravity Grants F A H X Glycol 4H. .O Al l 1H,l 1O Thickener Compositions B Ethylene Glycol Ca(NO;,)- 4H O NH NO 1 1.31 212.5 33 0.02 .015 10 40 10 2 1.20 195.5 33 0.09 .075 10 40 Y 10 3 1.11 180.0 33 0.82 .74 10 40 10 4 1.01 164.1 33 0.80 .79 10 40 10 5 0.91 147.5 33 0.74 .81 10 40 10 EXAMPLE 8 Various explosive properties of the following compositions were compared.

Composition No. Constituent Parts by Weight Al (particulate) Thickening Agent Other .25

Composition No. l falls within the scope of the pres ent invention while compositions 2-4 consist of formulations of commercially available explosives.

The tests consisted of l) a plate dent test to determine average detonation velocity of a confined explosive and dent pressure; (2) a detonation velocity test of unconfined explosive and (3) a cone test to determine minimum critical diameter.

In the plate dent test the average detonation velocity of a confined explosive is determined. Both the detonation velocity and the plate dent relate to the peak pressure or brisanee of the explosive. In the present example a 2 inch inside diameter extra heavy open ended steel pipe inches long was filled with an explosive composition to be tested. The pipe contained two ports through the wall thereof a known distance apart. Contactors were inserted through these ports and were employed to determine the velocity of detonation. One end of the pipe was centered on a cylindrical steel plate 3 inches in diameter and 4 inches thick. A 37 gram high pressure primer was centered on the opposite end of the pipe in contact with the explosive mixture. The primer was detonated with an electric blasting cap. The detonation velocity was determined upon detonation by suitable timing instrumentation known to those skilled in the art which measured the time for the detonation wave to progress from the first to second contactors. The plate dent pressure is determined from calculations known in the art based upon the dent produced by the explosive in the steel base plate.

In the second test the detonation velocity of unconfined explosive was determined. The unconfined detonation velocity test was determined by placing an explosive to be tested in a cardboard tube 16 inches long and of constant diameter over the length thereof. The diameter is any diameter which is greater than the critical diameter of the explosive being tested. The velocity was measured by employing contactors in the same manner as described for the plate dent test. A 37 gram high pressure booster was placed at one end of the tube in contact with the explosive and the booster armed and detonated with an electric blasting cap.

The third test consisted of a cone test to determine the minimum diameter column of explosive which will sustain propagation. In the cone test hollow tapered tubes constructed of cardboard 24 inches long were filled with the explosive to be tested. The explosives to be tested were first tested in a tube which evenly tapered from 4 to 3 inches in diameter. If the entire col umn of explosive propagated a like composition was then placed in a tube which tapered evenly from 3 inches to 2 inches in diameter. The explosive was always detonated from the larger end of the tube. After the detonation the diameter of any remains of the tube were measured at the position where the explosive appeared to fail to propagate.

The results of the tests are set forth in the following Table XX.

As shown by the data metallized compositions of the present invention show superior performance when compared to other metallized and unmetallized explosive compositions when tested at normal and low temperatures.

*khar 1 kilo bar equals 1000 bars equals 14.700 psi As these tests show the composition of the present invention demonstrated superior detonation velocities and better sensitivity (better minimum diameter) than did the other two metallized compositions which contained greater amounts of metal.

EXAMPLE 9 Explosive compositions were prepared from base mixes comprising; Mix A, 30 percent formamide and percent CNF; and Mix B, 28 percent formamide. 57 percent CNF and 15 percent NH NO Plastic balloons were employed as a density control agent and carboxy methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose was employed as a thickener. Additional NH NO and particulate aluminum were premixed into some of these base mixes and they were tested in small diameter cardboard and metal tubes. The results, diameters, size of initiator and formulations are set forth in the following Table XXI.

All the compositions were shot at about 70F. The boosters consisted of 50/50 pentolite in an amount as shown or a blasting cap.

In this example an indication of the fluidity of a composition was determined by observing the proportion of a mixture occupied by undissolved solids when the system had reached equilibrium. This parameter was chosen since the fluidity (and pumpability) of slurry explosives decreases as volume occupied by the solids approaches the volume occupied by the total composition.

TABLE XXl Wt /1 Paint Booster 'l'ube Type Result Wt "/1 Wt 92 Wt /1 (irade Weight Diam. Length and Density lnches Mix A NHNOJ. Al Al gins lnches lnchcs Thickness gm/cc Left 90A 1() 5 3/4 14 1/16 cardboard 1.115 (1 95A 5 5 3/4 8 l/l6 cardboard 1.17 (1 98A 2 5 3/4 8 1/16 cardboard 1.3(1 4 98A 2 No.6 cap III S 1/8 steel 1433 (1 Wt "/1 Mix B 50B 40 1(1 5 3/4 8 1/16 cardboard 1.17 4.5 5118 4(1 1(1 1() 3/4 8 1/16 cardboard 1.17 4.5 5013 4(1 1(1 20 3/4 8 H16 cardboard 1.17 4.5 50B 411 1(1 Engineers l/Z 14 H8 steel 1.18 (1 special 50B 40 10 No.6 cap l/2 8 H8 steel 1.18 (1 511B 411 1(1 Engineers 1 S 1/8 steel 1.18 (1 special 5118 4(1 10 No.6 cap 1 b l/H steel 1.13 (1 Fluidity Examples 2() izer grade NH NO and CNF in ethylene glycol, form- In examples 10 to 12 data was obtained to show the i l i l g q Welght f wnf g g g' g g plasticitv properties of compositions falling within the g ue 9 mlxtures 6210 an 6 y weight additional water. Methanol was also tested as a scope of the present invention.

fuel for a 10% water level only. In the methanol tests, EXAMPLE 10 25 samples were stirred by hand 2 or 3 times daily for several days and then allowed to settle. They were not placed on mechanical stirrers due to possible evaporation loss. The methanol system was observed both at room (75F) and 6F temperatures.

The R values for various compositions are listed in the following Tables XXII and XXlll. In Table XXlll percent by weight of CNF and NH NO are shown with methanol comprising the balance. The solubility results for the ethylene glycol- 10% H O compositions are illus- Thc ingredicmswere Weighed into Clear. cylindrical 35 trated in FIG. 6. In this diagram the solid and broken plastic container. The mixture was then stirred for sevli represent stant R values of about 25 and 50 era] hours at room temperature and d respectively for the different compositions tested. The t Settle Overnight Thfi height of Solid y r 1 and points represent the composition tested and the numthe total miXtul'e height 1 in the tain r fi bers over the points represent the R value (for that measured n the T8110 Obtained 2181 40 composition). These lines of approximately constant R values were obtained by visual interpolation. They demonstrate that better fluidity properties are obtained H at higher Ca(l\1O levels at even less liquid content 100 Ht) than at the higher NH NO levels. The data obtained on 45 the other fuel systems when plotted in this manner Data were obtained in this way for mixtures of fertilshow similar fluidity characteristics.

TABLE XXll Constituents Formamide Ethylene G1)'col* 5(1/ 5(1 Formamide/ Composition "/1 1 (Wt Ethylene Glycol* No. NH.NO CNF H 0 57 (W1 5% 10% 07 5'71 10% 9 29 44 2(1 (1 (1 1011 53 15 46 5 (1 (9) 1X (1 (1 100 49 14 49 5 (1 1(1 1 54 (1 (1 (1 l()() 53 26 42 (1 (1 (1(1) (1 (1 (1 1(1() 58 2(1 49 (1 (1 1 l 9 64 (1 (1 (1 100 62 35 41 (1 (1 l2 (1 73 (1 (1 (1 100 7(1 45 15 12 (1 13 58 23 73 5(1 32 10(1 66 48 61 43 14 48 33 53 35 22 74 35 75 45 24 15 38 43 25 17 4 101) 61 22 79 25 11 16 28 53 2.5 (1 (1 100 63 ll 77 22 (1 17 1X 63 1 1 (1 (1 H10 71 17 68 4(1 (1 18 8 73 42 3 (1 100 65 34 100 22 (1 (1X) 35 75 (1 10(1 75 39 1(1() 3(1 (1 1 (1 81 42 38 (1 1011 85 44 10(1 46 9 TABLE XXII CONTINUED R, 100 X (HS/HO) Constituents Formamidc* Ethylene Gl \'col* 50/50 Formamidc/ Composition '1? /7 Eth l GL H No. NH NO (NF H O 57 10% 571 10% U71 107:

2U 60 3(1 85 58 4-1 100 I00 56 l()() 75 50 21 50 40 76 34 22 I00 56 38 I00 57 32 4U 50 77 2 7 I00 67 27 I00 4 11 53' 30 m 52 2.5 0 Inn 3s 2x 100 45 7 (23) 60 5.1 I) 100 72 36 100 50 (l 24 20 7() 85 23 2 I00 55 31 I00 59 24 25 XI) I00 45 24 I01) 67 39 I00 68 36 26 ll )0 lIlU H6 55 IUU I00 63 I00 IOU 55 Note: 5 stems in parenthesis an: duplicate tests The fuel comprises the balance based on 100'; by eight of NH NO (NF and fuel and 'RIIUI' is in atltliliun to the base 3 component composition.

TABLE XXIII Composition 71 by Wt. 71 by Wt. R values at No. NH ,NO C NF Room Temp.

1 45 26 29 2 38 33 I8 3 30 41 6 4 22 48 I) 5 56 0 6 8 63 (l 7 9 71 2 8 53 43 9 46 32 31 II) 38 4U 19 I l 31 47 6 I2 23 55 2 l3 16 62 0 l4 8 70 4 I5 I 77 I3 16 60 25 56 I7 53 32 42 I8 45 40 28 I9 38 47 I5 20 55 4 21 23 62 3 22 15 70 9 23 8 77 21 "4 0 85 34 25 67 25 67 26 60 32 57 27 52 41 28 45 47 25 29 37 9 30 30 62 2 31 22 9 32 I5 77 50 33 7 85 50 34 0 92 63 EXAMPLE 1 I In this example a set of solubility data was obtained on a Nl-I NO CNF and formamide system in the same manner as described in the previous example. The data is summarized in FIGS. 7 to 9. In this example the mixes were allowed to equilibrate at -F and the presence of solids was noted. Then the mixes were cooled, first to 32F and then to 10F and the presence of solids was noted at each temperature level. 24 hours was the minimum time allowed for equilibration.

In FIG. 7 the dots represent the percent by weight of the 3 constituents in each test composition and in all the figures the solid curves represent approximately constant R values of about 25 percent. FIG. 7 gives the change in solubility noted for the system containing no water except that originally in the CNF. FIG. 8 is similar data for the system containing 10% added H 0. and FIG. 9 is a composite of 10F data showing the curves for 0. 5 and 10% added water.

It is significant to note that major shifts in the composition of the solid-liquid line occur with temperature at high formamide and high NH NO levels. At the minimum in the curve at about 20% NH NO -20'fi formamide-CNF there is relatively little shift of the equilibrium composition with temperature.

EXAMPLE I2 Eleven different base compositions plus 10 percent by weight additional water were formulated for each of 3 fuels, formamide, ethylene glycol and methanol. and placed into 2 quart (stacked 1 quart cylindrical cardboard containers about 3 inches in diameter) and cooled to 20F. These samples were tested for fluidity by observing the relative ease with which one finger could be inserted into the mix with normal hand pressure.

Plasticity was reported as H if the mix was so hard that it could not be deformed appreciably with finger pressure. It was rated P if it was deformable plastic, similar to a very heavy grease or soft wax. An S rating indicates that the mix was very soft and required little or no force to deform it.

FIGS. 10 to 12 show the plasticity data obtained in this manner for the different compositions tested at 20F. The letter corresponding to the plasticity is positioned on the diagram at the point corresponding to its fuel. NH NO CNF composition ratio.

From these data points. the regions of soft and plastic mixes are outlined and shaded to indicate those compositions having unique fluidity properties at lower temperatures.

It is noteworthy that the regions of soft and plastic formulations shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 correspond closely to the regions of room temperature solubility shown in FIGS. 7 to 9.

EXAMPLE 13 Certain compositions coming within the scope of the present invention were prepared containing the constituents set forth in the following Table XXIV. The minimum initiator required to detonate a 2 inch diameter column of the composition at 35F was determined. Also the detonation velocity of each composition was determined by the Dautriche method. The compositions and results of these tests are set forth in the following Table XXIV.

TABLE XXIV Compositions A B C F G Density gm/cc 1.00 1.25 1.40 0.90 1.15 1.25 1.35 Energy. Real/gm 0.68 1.002 1.135 0.804 0.936 1,041 1.155 Velocity. Ft/Sec 1 1.701) 13.700 13.900 1 1.600 13.700 13.900 13.200 Ingredients (Percent by Wt.)

Formumide 12.42 11.49 10.66 11.80 12.09 11.73 10.98 Ethylene (ilvcol 4.74 4.39 4.07 4.51 4.62 4.48 4.19 Ammonium Nitrate (AN) 2.02 18.36 16.29 21.36 18.16 17.03 15.74 Calcium Nitrate 45.54 42.12 39.10 43.25 44.33 43.03 40.24 (nurse Aluminum +325 mesh) 11.73 19.55 5.87 9.74 15.64 Pigment Aluminum -325 mesh) 3.91 3.91 3.91 3.91 Water Added .46 7.82 6.87 9.21 7.64 7.11 6.59 (luar (ium 2.25 2.25 2.25 2 2.25 2.25 2.25 Wet 'l'hermoplastic Micro-balloons 3.56 1.84 1.20 3.72 1.12 0.68 0.48 Formula Constants Formumide/Eth. Glycol Weight Ratio .62 2.62 2.62 2.62 2.62 2.62 2.62 (NF/AN Weigh! Ratio 2.07 2.29 2.40 2.02 2.44 2.53 2.56 Oxygen Balance "/1 grams/100 grants +1.51 9.44 16.73 2.ll 7.59 1 1.19 l6.72 Total Water 51 18.96 15.52 13.64 18.49 15.13 14.07 12.99 Minimum Booster at F 37 gm 37 gm 37 gm No. 6 cap No. 6 cup No. 6 cap 37 gm Energy was determined h \indcruulcr technique as described in Cole. L'ndernuter Explosions 194R).

Grams of composition (-4. plastic explnshc containing -90"; RDX and 10; inert hinder.

What is claimed is:

1. An explosive composition which comprises. at least about 50 percent. as percent by weight. of the following mixture:

a. from about 51 to about 85 percent of inorganic oxidizing salts consisting essentially of ammonium nitrate and calcium nitrate wherein calcium nitrate consists of from about 53 to about 95 percent of said inorganic oxidizing salts;

b. from about 9 to about 35 percent of at least one water miscible organic fuel; and

from about 5 to about 21 percent of water. said composition having an oxygen balance ranging from about +20 grams to about 8 grams of oxygen per 100 grams of said mixture. said weight ratio of said water miscible organic fuel to calcium nitrate in said mixture ranging from about 0.80 to about 0.20 and sufficient gaseous voids incorporated in said mixture to provide a bulk density ranging from about 0.80 to 1.40 gm/cc.

2. The explosive composition of claim 1 including in addition up to about 50 percent of at least one sensitizer or fuel in addition to said water miscible organic fuel wherein each of components (a), (b) and (c) is proportionately decreased by the amount of said second sensitizer or fuel.

3. The explosive composition of claim 1 including in addition particulate aluminum.

4. The explosive composition of claim 1 including in addition particulate magnesium.

5. The explosive composition of claim 1 including in addition paint grade aluminum.

6. The explosive composition of claim 1 including in addition small void containing plastic spheres as a density control agent.

7. The explosive composition of claim 1 containing sufficient water and water miscible organic fuel to dissolve substantially all the inorganic oxidizing salts at room temperature.

8. The explosive composition as defined in claim 1 wherein the water miscible organic fuel is at least one of ethylene glycol, formamide. propylene glycol. methanol, ethanol. glycerol or diethylene glycol.

9. The explosive composition as defined in claim 1 including in addition at least one of a gelling or thickening agent.

10. The explosive composition as defined in claim 1 including in addition a cellulosic thickening agent.

11. The explosive composition as defined in claim 1 wherein at least a portion of the water miscible organic fuel consists of formamide.

12. The explosive composition of claim 1 wherein atv least about 50 percent by weight of the organic fuel is formamide.

13. The explosive composition of claim 1 wherein the oxygen balance of the mixture ranges from about 0 to about +15 grams of oxygen per 100 grams of mixture.

14. An explosive composition which comprises at least about percent by weight of the following mixture:

a. a mixture of inorganic oxidizing salts consisting essentially of calcium nitrate and ammonium nitrate wherein said calcium nitrate ranges in amount from about 53 to about percent of said inorganic oxidizing salts;

b. At least one water miscible organic fuel selected from the group consisting of formamide. ethylene glycol, methanol. ethanol, glycerol. diethylene glycol or propylene glycol;

. water, said component (a) ranging from about 55 to about 75 percent of the total of components (a), (b) and (c), said component (b) ranges from about 10 to about 27 percent by weight of the total components (a), (b) and (c) and said component (0) ranges from about 7 to about 20 percent by weight of the total of components (a), (bl and (c). said mixture has an oxygen balance ranging from about +20 to about 8 grams of oxygen per grams of mixture, and the weight ratio of said water miscible organic fuel to calcium nitrate ranges from about 0.20 to about 0.80;

(1. small gaseous voids dispersed throughout said explosive composition in an amount sufficient to provide a bulk density ranging from about 0.80 to about 1.4 gm/cc.; and

e. a member selected from the group consisting thickening or gelling agent.

15. The explosive composition of claim 14 including in addition paint grade aluminum in an amount ranging from about 2 to about 10 percent.

16. The explosive composition of claim 14 wherein said gaseous voids are small void containing plastic of. a

spheres 17. The explosive composition of claim 14 including sufficient water and water miscible organic fuel to dissolve substantially all the inorganic oxidizing salts at room temperature.

18. The explosive composition of claim 14 wherein the organic fuel consists of at least about 50 percent by weight of formamide.

19. The explosive composition of claim 18 wherein the oxygen balance ranges from about to about grams of oxygen per 100 grams of mixture.

20. An explosive composition which comprises:

a. from about 55 to about 75 percent of inorganic oxidizing salts consisting essentially of from about 15 to about 47 percent ammonium nitrate and from about 53 to about 85 percent calcium nitrate;

b. from about 10 to about 27 percent of at least one water miscible organic fuel consisting essentially of at least about 50 percent of formamide in admixture with ethylene glycol, methanol, glycerol, di ethylene glycol, propylene glycol or ethanol; and

c. from about 7 to about 20 percent of water, said composition having an oxygen balance ranging from about +20 to about 8 grams of oxygen per grams of mixture and having a weight ratio of organic fuel to calcium nitrate ranging from about 0.30 to about 0.70.

21. The explosive composition of claim 20 including in addition a thickening or gelling agent.

22. The explosive composition of claim 20 containing sufficient water and water miscible organic fuel to dissolve substantially all the inorganic oxidizing salts at room temperature.

23. The explosive composition of claim 20 containing in addition sufficient gaseous voids to provide a bulk density in said mixture ranging from about 0.80 to about 1.4 gm/cc.

Claims

1. AN EXPLOSIVE COMPOSITION WHICH COMPRISES, AT LEAST ABOUT 50 PERCENT, AS PERCENT BY WEIGHT, OF THE FOLLOWING MIXTURE: A. FROM ABOUT 51 TO ABOUT 85 PERCENT OF INORGANIC OXIDIZING SALTS CONSISTING ESSENTIALLY OF AMMONIUM NITRATE AND CALCIUM NITRATE WHEREIN CALCIUM NITRATE CONSISTS OF FROM ABOUT 53 TO ABOUT 95 PERCENT OF SAID INORGANIC OXIDIZING SALTS, B. FROM ABOUT 9 TO ABOUT 35 PERCENT OF AT LEAST ONE WATER MISCIBLE ORGANIC FUEL, AND C. FROM ABOUT 5 TO ABOUT 21 PERCENT OF WATER, SAID COMPOSITION HAVING AN OXYGEN BALANCE RANGING FROM ABOUT +20 GRAMS TO ABOUT -8 GRAMS OF OXYGEN PER 100 GRAMS OF SAID MIXTURE SAID WEIGHT RATIO OF SAID WATER MISCIBLE ORGANIC FUEL TO CALCIUM NITRATE IN SAID MIXTURE RANGING FROM ABOUT 0.80 TO ABOUT 0.20 AND SUFFICIENT GASEOUS VOIDS INCORPORATED IN SAID MIXTURE TO PROVIDE A BULK DENSITY RANGING FROM ABOUT 0.80 TO 1.40 GM/CC.

8. The explosive composition as defined in claim 1 wherein the water miscible organic fuel is at least one of ethylene glycol, formamide, propylene glycol, methanol, ethanol, glycerol or diethylene glycol.

12. The explosive composition of claim 1 wherein at least about 50 percent by weight of the organic fuel is formamide.

14. An explosive composition which comprises at least about 70 percent by weight of the following mixture: a. a mixture of inorganic oxidizing salts consisting essentially of calcium nitrate and ammonium nitrate wherein said calcium nitrate ranges in amount from about 53 to about 85 percent of said inorganic oxidizing salts; b. At least one water miscible organic fuel selected from the group consisting of formamide, ethylene glycol, methanol, ethanol, glycerol, diethylene glycol or propylene glycol; c. water, said component (a) ranging from about 55 to about 75 percent of the total of components (a), (b) and (c), said component (b) ranges from about 10 to about 27 percent by weight of the total components (a), (b) and (c) and said component (c) ranges from about 7 to about 20 percent by weight of the total of components (a), (b) and (c), said mixture has an oxygen balance ranging from about +20 to about -8 grams of oxygen per 100 grams of mixture, and the weight ratio of said water miscible organic fuel to calcium nitrate ranges from about 0.20 to about 0.80; d. small gaseous voids dispersed throughout said explosive composition in an amount sufficient to provide a bulk density ranging from about 0.80 to about 1.4 gm/cc.; and e. a member selected from the group consisting of a thickening or gelling agent.

16. The explosive composition of claim 14 wherein said gaseous voids are small void containing plastic spheres.

17. The explosive composition of claim 14 including sufficient water and water miscible organic fuel to dissolve substantially all the inorganic oxidizing salts at room temperature.

19. The explosive composition of claim 18 wherein the oxygen balance ranges from about 0 to about +15 grams of oxygen per 100 grams of mixture.

20. An explosive composition which comprises: a. from about 55 to about 75 percent of inorganic oxidizing salts consisting essentially of from about 15 to about 47 percent ammonium nitrate and from about 53 to about 85 percent calcium nitrate; b. from about 10 to about 27 percent of at least one water miscible organic fuel consisting essentially of at least about 50 percent of formamide in admixture with ethylene glycol, methanol, glycerol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol or ethanol; and c. from about 7 to about 20 percent of water, said composition having an oxygen balance ranging from about +20 to about -8 grams of oxygen per 100 grams of mixture and having a weight ratio of organic fuel to calcium nitrate ranging from about 0.30 to about 0.70.