Thermal Properties of Energetic Materials—What Are the Sources of Discrepancies?

Thermal analysis is widely used to investigate the properties of a variety of energetic materials, including the mutual compatibility of components of energetic material mixtures. Although thermal analysis methods are a valuable source of information about energetic materials, their use requires careful consideration of the employed methodology, as well as an understanding of the thermally induced processes taking place within energetic materials. Several case studies involving the study of energetic materials are presented, in order to highlight some of the most relevant issues in the application of thermal analysis methods. Some recommendations about the application of thermal analysis methods and accompanying methodologies for estimating other properties of energetic materials are also included.