Controllable thermal degradation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) by absorption and confinement into mixed metal sponges

Abstract

In this work, we report the absorption and confinement of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in porous metals (Ag, Ag/Al, and Ag/Cu), and the effect of the physical properties of the metal on the calorimetric properties of TNT using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The surface area and pore size distribution of the confiners were calculated to determine their effect on both the onset temperature and the rate at which TNT volatilizes. Confinement of TNT into the mixed metal sponges was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. Overall, this study provides an insight into the fundamental factors influencing the properties of energetic materials under confinement that could potentially allow for more controlled and reliable degradation techniques depending on the characteristics of the porous material.