Stereochemistry is vital in refining the density and detonation capabilities of cage-like energetic substances, as indicated by recent findings. Earlier investigations on two-dimensional materials often overlooked the role of isomeric differences on energetic features. Nonetheless, new research by Jun Luo and his group at Nanjing University of Science and Technology indicates a different perspective, especially for three-dimensional forms that are likely more affected by stereochemistry.
Luo’s team crafted two series of 3D energetic stereoisomers utilizing a 2,4,10-trioxaadamantane backbone. This compound was selected for its design adaptability and its accessibility from the natural product inositol. Through stereoselective modifications, they generated four trinitrate ester diastereomers and three tetranitro diastereomers. These compounds were examined for their density, which is a crucial factor influencing detonation pressure.
Among the created compounds, the (exo,endo)-tetranitro isomer exhibited the highest crystal density of 1.980g cm⁻³, exceeding that of numerous current energetic materials. The strength of intermolecular hydrogen bonding significantly contributed to its remarkable density. In comparison, the all-exo and all-endo trinitrate isomers also showed greater densities than those of lower symmetry.
Explosive performance evaluations, including a lead plate perforation assessment, validated the superior performance of the (exo,endo)-tetranitro isomer, aligning its capabilities with the commercial explosive RDX. These results suggest that leveraging configurational isomerism could greatly improve the qualities of energetic materials.
Experts, such as Dheeraj Kumar from the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, acknowledge the significance of this research, suggesting it will prompt chemists to reassess and refine energetic compounds through stereochemical alterations. This progress promotes the interdisciplinary collaboration between organic chemists and energetic material scientists to create materials with enhanced energetic properties.