NITROCELLULOSE
Nitric-ester of cellulose — a high-energy, polymeric binder and propellant base
Key Specs
Chemical Composition
_n
Chemical Name
Cellulose Nitrate
Synonyms
- Cellulose nitrate
- Guncotton
- Collodion
- Pyroxylin
NITROCELLULOSE
Nitrocellulose (cellulose nitrate) manufactured from purified cellulose (typically cotton linters) nitrated to propellant-grade nitrogen levels. Supplied water-wet or alcohol-wet to ensure safe handling and transportation. Primary use is as the energetic binder/base in single-base and composite propellant systems and as an intermediate in energetic formulations. (General background on propellant NC use and viscosity methods follows NATO STANAG/AOP-4178 practice.
Chemical Properties
Nitrogen Content (wt%): 12.6 ± 0.15; 13.2–13.4
Viscosity Class: AOP‑4178
Fineness/Fiber length:Determined prior to
wetting.
Nitrogen Content wt% (dry): 12.45–12.75 (Grade A) or
13.20–13.40 (Grade B)
Volatiles (wetting agent): ≥25 (water‑wet or
alcohol‑wet, as ordered)
Ash wt% (dry): ≤0.20
Acidity wt% (dry): ≤0.02
Alcohol Content (if alcohol-wet): Per order (≥25)
Viscosity: Grade‑dependent (to order)
PH: Neutral to slightly acidic
Handling and Safety Notes
Military specification: MIL‑DTL‑244
NATO references: STANAG/AOP‑4178 & AOP‑7
UN / Transport (49 CFR / ADR / IMDG / IATA):
- UN 2555 – Nitrocellulose with water, ≥25% water
by mass; Class 4.1. - UN 2556 – Nitrocellulose with alcohol, ≥25%
alcohol by mass and ≤12.6% N (dry); Class 4.1, PG
II, ERG 113. - UN 2557 – Nitrocellulose (mixture), ≤12.6% N
(dry), with/without plasticizer/pigment; Class 4.1.
Trained Personnel Only: Handling and use of Semtex 1H must be performed exclusively by qualified and trained explosives professionals.
Avoid Shock and Impact: Although Semtex 1H has reduced sensitivity compared to Semtex 1A, it is still a high explosive and can detonate if subjected to strong shock, impact, or friction.
Use Proper Initiation Devices: Detonation requires appropriate blasting caps or detonators; do not attempt to ignite by flame or spark.
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from heat sources, open flames, and incompatible materials.
Static Electricity: Take precautions to prevent static discharge; use grounding and bonding techniques when transferring or handling the explosive.
Packaging Integrity: Keep packaging sealed and intact to maintain stability and prevent contamination.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use appropriate PPE including gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing when handling.
Environmental Considerations: Avoid contamination of soil and water; dispose of any waste according to local hazardous materials regulations.
Emergency Procedures: Have appropriate fire suppression and evacuation plans in place in case of accidental ignition or spillage.
QUALITY ASSURANCE
- Conformance: Manufactured and accepted per
MIL‑DTL‑244 requirements (grades/types/classes;
examination & test matrix). - NC‑specific tests: Nitrogen %, ash, acidity/alkalinity,
volatiles, insolubles, fineness, viscosity (MIL method). - Stability / Surveillance: Tested and reported per STANAG/
AOP‑4178 protocols where applicable; material
qualification per AOP‑7. - Lotting: Unique lot IDs; retain samples and QA records
per contract.