Separation of Fragmented Energetic Materials via Directed Ultrasonic Energy

Previously acceptable methods of demilitarization are generally no longer appropriate. Environmental issues, community concerns, and economic costs dictate that better methods of munitions disposal be developed. For some munitions basic resources can be recovered and essential weapons components recycled. To address this problem, TPL proposes using an ultrasonic probe to fracture and removal of polymer-bonded explosives from shells in a remote operation. The program will focus on minimizing hazardous wastes and operations hazards. Pilot plant scale operations will be developed to remotely remove explosive directly from shells. Separation techniques will be developed for integration of the entire process. TPL is active in numerous areas of energetic material research and is known for formulation and full-scale chemical process development primarily for demilitarization activities for the Army, Navy, Air Force and MDA.