Thermal decomposition studies on energetic triazole derivatives

Thermal decomposition studies on two energetic triazole derivatives, viz N-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-3-nitro-1,2,4-triazole (1a) and N-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-3-azido-1,2,4-triazole (1b) have been investigated using simultaneous TG-DTA and TG-GC/MS techniques. Both compounds (1a) & (1b) showed good thermal stability, with exothermic decomposition peaks at 349 °C and 217 °C, respectively on DTA. Compound (1a) was found thermally more stable, and showed gradual weight loss after 250 °C. Kinetic parameters were calculated from the DTA peak temperatures, at different heating rates according to the method of Ozawa and Kissinger and refined for accuracy as per the ASTM E698 standard. Qualitative analysis of gaseous species produced during the decomposition was analysed using mass spectrometry, using the TG–GC/MS techniques. As evident from mass spectrum both compounds showed presence of CO2, NO2, NO, HCN, N2, & H2O among the products of decomposition.

► Two energetic triazole derivatives prepared and characterized.
► Decomposition analysis and kinetics of compounds were studied using TG/DTA.
► Both compounds showed good thermal stability.
► Simultaneous TG-GC/MS was used to analyze the decomposition products.
► Both compounds can be potential candidates for energetic gas generating applications.