X-ray radiation decomposition of cyclo-1,3,5-trimethylene-2,4,6-trinitramine (RDX), at low temperature: Initial reaction steps

X‐ray radiation damage has been employed as a controllable method for the generating of partial decomposition products in the energetic material RDX. X‐ray photoelectron spectra provided a real time measure of the developing chemistries during the accumulation of radition damage. Rates of NO2 loss were identical at 20 °C and −50 °C However, strong variations in the product chemistry were observed. Nitroso, triazine and for the first time, nitrite ester nitrogen chemistries were observed from the solid RDX. Initial reaction steps are suggested in light of this and previously reported work.