Why does RDX explode?

Published by Anaya Cole on

Why does RDX explode?

RDX is a “nitrogen explosive”, meaning that its explosive properties are due to the presence of many nitrogen-nitrogen bonds, rather than oxygen. These bonds are extremely unstable, since nitrogen atoms always want to come together to produce nitrogen gas because the triple bond in nitrogen is very strong and stable.

Why do we need to clean up RDX?

RDX affects the nervous system and can cause seizures, nausea and vomiting (ATSDR 2012; EPA 2005; NCBI 2020). ❖ There is suggestive evidence of carcinogenic potential for RDX based on evidence of benign and malignant tumors in the liver and lungs of rats ( ).

Is RDX volatile?

Such detection remains a significant challenge because RDX is 10(3) less volatile than 1,3,5-trinitrotoluene (TNT), corresponding to a parts-per-trillion vapor pressure under ambient conditions.

Can RDX be detected?

Conventional detection methods can hardly detect RDX, and no direct vapor detection has been reported based on a fluorescence method because RDX has no aromatic rings and hence it does not have a strong enough interaction with the fluorescent probe.

Is RDX explosive?

The chemical name for RDX is hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine. It is a white powder and is very explosive. RDX is used as an explosive and is also used in combination with other ingredients in explosives.

How do I find my RDX?

Several methods have been used to detect and measure RDX in explosive materials and debris from explosions. The most common separation procedure is HPLC, but HRGC has also been used. These methods have been paired with several types of detectors, including TEA, MS, electrochemical detection, and UV.

Does RDX have a smell?

RDX is used as an explosive and is also used in combination with other ingredients in explosives. Its odor and taste are unknown. It is a synthetic product that does not occur naturally in the environment. It creates fumes when it is burned with other substances.

Is RDX a carcinogen?

The EPA has determined that RDX is a possible human carcinogen based on the presence of liver tumors in mice that were exposed to RDX in the food for 1–2 years.

How does RDX bomb look like?

RDX (abbreviation of “Research Department eXplosive”) or hexogen, among other names, is an organic compound with the formula (O2N2CH2)3. It is a white solid without smell or taste, widely used as an explosive. Chemically, it is classified as a nitroamine alongside HMX, which is a more energetic explosive than TNT.

What’s the biggest non nuclear bomb?

GBU-43/B MOAB

GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB)
Mass 21,600 lb (9,800 kg)
Length 30 ft 1.75 in (9.1885 m)
Diameter 40.5 in (103 cm)
Filling H-6

Is RDX poisonous?

❖ RDX targets the nervous system and can cause seizures in humans and animals when large amounts are inhaled or ingested. Human studies also revealed nausea and vomiting after inhalation or oral exposure to unknown levels of RDX (EPA 2005; HSDB 2013; Ketel and Hughes 1972).

What does RDX smell like?

RDX (abbreviation of “Research Department eXplosive”) or hexogen, among other names, is an organic compound with the formula (O2N2CH2)3. It is a white solid without smell or taste, widely used as an explosive.

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