Computational study of energetic derivatives of 3,3′-bridged ditriazoles

Abstract

A series of energetic bridged ditriazole was designed by incorporating different bridges and substituents into 4H-1,2,4-triazole ring. The geometrical structures, heats of formation, detonation properties, electronic structures, thermodynamic properties, free spaces, impact sensitivities, and thermal stabilities of the designed compounds were evaluated by employing density functional theory. The results elucidate that the –N3 substituent and –N=N– bridge can sufficiently increase their heats of formation. The calculated values of detonation properties show that –NF2, –ONO2, –O–, and –N=N(O)– are useful structural fragments to improve their detonation performance. The incorporation of the oxy (–O–) bridge increases their HOMO–LUMO energy gaps. An analysis of h50 values indicate that most of the designed compounds are less sensitive. The N(ring)-NO2 bond in the majority of the derivatives may be a possible trigger bond in thermal decomposition process. The incorporation of –CH2–CH2– and –O– is helpful to enhance their thermal stabilities. Based on appropriate thermal stabilities and superb detonation properties, six compounds were screened as promising high energy density compounds.