Study of an Energetic-oxidant Co-crystal: Preparation, Characterisation, and Crystallisation Mechanism

An energetic co-crystal consisting of the most promising military explosive 2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitro-2,4,6,8,10,12-hexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) and the most well-known oxidant applied in propellants ammonium perchlorate has been prepared with a simple solvent evaporation method. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the morphology of co-crystal differs greatly from each component. The X-ray diffraction spectrum, FTIR, Raman spectra, and differential scanning calorimetry characterisation further prove the formation of the co-crystal. The result of determination of hygroscopic rate indicated the hygroscopicity was effectively reduced. At last, the crystallisation mechanism has been discussed