Thread by @JJSabatini

1/8 Despite what @physorg_com says, TNTNB will not "play an important role in mining and engineering applications, pyrotechnics, space exploration, or military weapons systems."In fact, it will play zero role. Let me explain why.
#ChemTwitter @physorg_com
phys.org/news/2022-03-s…

2/8 First, TNTNB decomposes at 65 C. That alone precludes its use in the form of any of these aforementioned applications. That decomposition temperature for an explosive material is too low for any practical use, be it for military or civilian applications.

#chemtwitter

3/8 Second, TNTNB is ridiculously sensitive, on par with the highly primary explosive lead azide. Lead azide is used only for niche applications such as bullet primers and detonators. But unlike TNTNB, it is thermally robust, melts at 190 C, and decomposes at 315 C. #chemtwitter

4/8 Third, @ChemistryWorld compares TNTNB to the highly stable explosive, CL-20 (which decomposes ca. 240 C). But CL-20 is thermally stable, whereas TNTNB is not. CL-20's performance is experimentally determined. TNTNB, theoretically derived.
#chemtwitter
chemistryworld.com/news/fully-nit…

5/8 Fourth, the claim is made that TNTNB "is stable in moist air, water, acids and bases." But the nitramino protons are very acidic. They will readily form salts with most any base that it touches for this reason. Hence, TNTNB is not resistant to base.
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6/8 Fifth, When TNTNB contacts moisture or alcohol, the H2O or alcohol remains in the crystal. This phenomenon will significantly degrade the performance of the energetic. TNTNB appears to be stable to moisture, but its performance is eroded in the process.
#chemtwitter

7/8 TNTNB is an interesting, basic research finding that will have zero practical applications. Saying that TNTNB will have applications in space, mining, pyrotechnics, and military use is not an accurate statement. Anyone skilled in energetics knows this is the case
#chemtwitter

8/8 Let me emphasize that I'm not blaiming @ChemistryWorld for the claims made in their article. They've done nice work covering energetics topics in the past. They likely made the TNTNB remarks based on how the paper reads; a sales pitch with no practical potential #chemtwitter