DAPT and the synthesis of RDX and HMX
So, I have previously synthesized HMX from the hexamine -> DAPT ->DADN -> SOLEX -> HMX route without isolation of the DAPT intermediate.
By the way, DAPT is very similar to DPT, but the two nitro groups in DPT are replaced by two acetyl groups in DAPT. DADN is HMX but with two nitro
groups and two acetyl groups while SOLEX is three nitros and one acetyl. The method works very well, is economical but does require access to acetic
anhydride (which I have).
Now, recently I found a patent by Lukasavage about almost quantitative yield of RDX from DAPT. He admits to not knowing why this molecule would so
readily form RDX, since based on the structure an eight membered ring would seem the natural product. Since DAPT can be had from hexamine in
practically quantitative yield (assuming 1:1 hexamine: DAPT), I would like to examine this process.
The issue I'm having is the isolation of DAPT. When I did it according to the Los Alamos report, I was left with a syrupy mass that smelled faintly of
acetic acid and showed no signs of crystallizing. Reading through Lukasavages very long HMX patent, there are some indications that DAPT is thermally
unstable, at least under some conditions (low pH, where it apparently exists as the diacetate).
I realize not everyone has access to acetic anhydride, but does anyone have experience with DAPT?
Attachment: DAPT-DADN-HMX.pdf (937kB)
This file has been downloaded 36 times
Attachment: Lukasavage RDX.pdf (273kB)
This file has been downloaded 35 times
Attachment: Lukasavage_HMX_2001.pdf (371kB)
This file has been downloaded 26 times
[Edited on 20-3-2025 by Microtek]
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