Polyurethane Binders as Sensitivity Reducer in Energetic Materials

The sensitivity of energetic materials can be reduced by use of chemical binders such as polyurethanes. This review covers a brief account on energetic materials and industrial use of binders in reducing these materials sensitivity. The role of polyurethane binders, as the most common polymeric binders, is reviewed in relation to the thermal and mechanical properties of energetic materials. Finally, in this review the chemistry of polyurethane elastomers, production methods, raw materials and important parameters influencing the physical, chemical and mechanical properties of these polymers are discussed. Based on current studies, polyurethanes have excellent physical, chemical and mechanical properties and therefore, they are the most important binders used in energetic materials.