Studies on the physicomechanical properties of commonly
used energetic
materials (EMs) that were pursued by the group led by Professor John
Sherwood are reviewed in this paper. The studies ranged from the growth
of high quality single crystals and the characterization of their
defect and dislocation structures, mechanical testing, through to
the study of polymorphism of EM crystals and fundamental aspects of
crystallization processes in general. The work performed led to the
definition of good growth conditions for all the EMs studied and to
the full characterization of the defect structure, slip systems, and
hardness properties of cyclotrimethylene trinitramine (RDX) and pentaerythritol
tetranitrate (PETN). Partial characterization of the defect structures
and hardness properties of cyclotetramethylene tetranitramine (HMX)
and 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) was also achieved. Additionally, fundamental
crystal growth and polymorph information were defined, allowing a
deeper understanding of the crystallization and crystal structure
of TNT. In addition to the general review, some thoughts were given
as to possible future routes for further study that could suitably
utilize the complementary nature of established and modern techniques.