Cellular, nitrocellulose-based propellant composition.

Abstract

The propellant is a totally consumable, smokeless compn. It is esp. suitable for making cartridge cases. It is prepd. by mixing an org. polyisocyanate with a nitrocellulose-base propellant in the presence of a plasticizer and an opacifying agent. During curing, CO2 is formed which produces a cellular structure. 2,4-Tolylene diisocyanate (I) or its mixts. with the 2,6 isomer may be used. Suitable propellants are single- or double-base ball powders. Plasticizers include oxidant-gype compds., e.g. nitroglycerin diethylene glycol dinitrate, pentaerythritol trinitrate, or 1,2,4-trinitrobutane, or fuel-type compds., e.g. alkyl sebacates, phthalates, or adipates. A mixt. of single-base ball powder 70.2, di-Pr adipate 27.8, I 2.0, and C black 0.2% was prepd. The ball powder contained nitrocellulose (12.6% N) 98, di-Et phthalate 1, 2-nitrophenylamine 1, and dioctyl phthalate 0.1%. The compn. was mixed, heated to 90°F, maintained until a castable viscosity was reached, cast into molds, and cured 18 hr at 72°. [on SciFinder(R)]