To evaluate the thermal stability of ammonium nitrate-water-in-oil emulsions, the thermal decomposition kinetics and resultant products were examined. As a baseline, the thermal stability of ammonium nitrate with individual components of the emulsion was determined. Only mineral oil had any effect on the decomposition. Generally, ammonium nitrate mixed with hydrocarbons has enhanced thermal stability. However, ammonium nitrate mixed, rather than emulsified, with mineral oil can decompose along a lower energy pathway than pure ammonium nitrate. The extent of decomposition along that pathway is not large before the decomposition process results in emulsification of the ammonium nitrate and, thus, in termination of that pathway. Mineral oil appears to be unique among the hydrocarbons in its ability to destabilize ammonium nitrate. Experiments utilized differential scanning calorimetry in combination with conventional isothermal techniques.

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