STRUCTURAL AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL CHANGES IN RDX UNDER VIBRATION

The kinetics and velocity of solid-state RDX decomposition under the a ction of vibration were determined experimentally as functions of vibr ation parameters and the initial temperature of the substance. Changes in the macro- and microstructure of the crystals were studied using a -ray diffraction and x-ray phase analyses and microscopy. The change i n the chemical composition after vibration was studied by IR spectrosc opy. It is concluded that the mechanism and kinetics of RDX decomposit ion under vibration differ significantly from those of thermal decompo sition. This is associated with the mechanochemical activation of pote ntial active centers at the sites of formation and multiplication of d islocations, with the fatigue mechanism of crack initiation under cycl ic loads, and with the appearance of heating spots during breakup of p articles.