For nitrocellulose compounds, and other explosive materials, Exeter Analytical has developed a new safe and accurate percentage nitrogen determination method based its model CE440 elemental analyser
Exeter Analytical has released a new application note that describes a safe and accurate analytical method for accurately determining the percentage nitrogen (N) content of explosive materials such as pentanitrocellulose, dekanitrocellulose, and pyroxylin.
Historically, the nitrogen content of nitrocellulose compounds, as well as other munitions, has been analysed with a nitrometer using the standard method MIL-STD-286B (T-209.9).
However not only is this method labour intensive, but it also potentially exposes the operator to harmful mercury vapours.
Application note TM212 describes the new methodology and demonstrates how theoretical values of nitrogen compare closely with data obtained from standard method MIL-STD-286B (T-209.9).
The Exeter Analytical CE440 elemental analyser uses thermal conductivity detectors to simultaneously analyse for nitrogen, carbon and hydrogen content.
Interferences are removed through column packings and the combusted sample is converted into non-toxic carbon dioxide, water vapour and nitrogen.
