2-Picryl-5-Nitrotetrazole: Synthesis and Explosive Properties

2-Picryl-5-nitrotetrazole (PNT) has been synthesised by reaction of anhydrous sodium 5-nitrotetrazole with picryl chloride and obtained in suitable physical form by crystallisation from acetone-hexane. Impact, thermal and electrostatic sensitivity are all typical of a primary explosive. PNT ignites from match-head or hot wire to a powerful explosion but does not detonate unless initiated by a strong shock such as from detonating lead azide. RDX can be detonated by 100 mg of PNT but heavy confinement is required. PNT shows excellent promise as a replacement for tetrazene as an energetic sensitizer in stab (and percussion) sensitive mixtures. (Author)