Thermal stability of ammonium dinitramide

The low temperature thermal stability of ammonium dinitramide (ADN) and efforts to improve the thermal stability are presented. The decomposition rates of ADN at 60, 70, 80, and 90 °C were investigated. Several potential thermal stabilizers were investigated to suppress the low temperature decomposition (60–90 °C) of ADN. The potential stabilizers investigated were potassium fluoride, potassium dinitramide, a 6-member ring or polymeric phosphorous compound [P(C6H5)]6,polymer, and perhydro-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-trione, commonly known as Verkade’s super base (VC). Comparison of the decomposition of pure ADN and 1–2% by mass mixtures of ADN and the potential stabilizers are presented. Finally, the low temperature stabilizers are compared to hexamethylene tetramine (commonly known as urotropine or hexamine). Verkade’s super base is found to be most effective.