A Short Review of Nitric Esters and Their Role in Energetic Materials

A review of energetic materials based on the nitric ester functionality is presented. Examined are materials that are classified as primary explosives, pressable secondary explosives, melt-castable secondary explosives, and rocket- and gun-propellant materials. Disclosed are the molecular structures, physical properties, performances, and sensitivities of the most important legacy nitric esters, as well as the relevant new materials developed within the past several years. Where necessary, discussions of the synthetic protocols to synthesize these materials are also presented.