Energetic materials and munitions are used across DoD in mission critical applications such as rockets, missiles, ammunition, and pyrotechnic devices. In these applications, energetic materials and munitions must perform as designed to ensure success in both training and combat operations. There are, however, potential environmental, occupational safety and health risks associated with these materials. Mitigating these risks throughout the life-cycle of these materials is costly and time-consuming.

SERDP and ESTCP are investing in the development and demonstration of alternative materials and synthesis processes to reduce the environmental and occupational safety and health impacts of energetic materials and munitions while maintaining critical performance criteria. Investments are focused on the following areas:

Subtopics:
Advanced Synthesis Methods

Synthesis of energetic materials, in many cases involves mature technologies. However, large amounts of strong acids and hazardous solvents are often required. Significant quantities of waste are produced and in many cases these waste materials are contaminated with toxic metals or with EM and thus require special disposal methods. SERDP and ESTCP are exploring novel methods to reduce or eliminate the wastes associated with the synthesis of EM. Learn More...

Formulation & Processing Technologies

Processing of EM into propellants explosives or pyrotechnics can be both hazardous and waste producing. Formulations are generally high solid loading and can be very viscous or difficult to mix to homogeneity. The batches generally have limited pot life and for any number of reasons batches can exceed their pot life and generate significant waste. Even under optimum conditions batch mixing requires significant clean up after each run and generates large amounts of hazardous waste. In many processes, batches are made and distributed to the ordnance case. Continuous processes offer significant advantages and mix in case technologies are potentially a big improvement. SERDP and ESTCP have been exploring a variety of methods to improve on the formulation and processing of EM. Learn More...

Demilitarization Methods & Technologies

The DoD maintains a large stockpile of munitions and ordnance that require demilitarization. Open burn and open detonation processes have been employed. The emissions from open burn and open detonation are being scrutinized. SERDP and ESTCP projects have measured emission factors for a variety of demilitarization methods as well as for as intended use on our DoD ranges. In addition, we are exploring alternative technologies for treatment of EM. Learn More...