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PBX 9407
1. GENERAL PROPERTIES
1.1 Chemical and Physical Description. PBX 9407 is composed of RDX coated
with Exon 461, a chlorotrifluoroethylene/tetrafluoroethylene/vinylidene fluoride
copolymer. The molding powder is off-white.
1.2 Common Use. PBX 9407 is generally used as a booster explosive.
1.3 Toxicity.’ Workers who inhaled RDX dust for several months have become
unconscious and have suffered loss of reflexes. The suggested maximum permissible
airborne concentration is 1.5 mg/m”. Inhaling hot Exon vapor should be avoided.
2. MANUFACTURE AND PROCUREMENT
2.1 Manufacture. PBX-9407 molding powder is prepared by the water slurry
process. An Exon lacquer is prepared in a water-immiscible solvent and added to a
water slurry containing Type II Class 5 RDX crystals. During solvent removal by
distillation, the plastic uniformly coats and agglomerates the RDX crystals in the
water phase. The process variables must be carefully controlled to produce satisfac-
tory agglomerates, composition, and bulk density.
2.2 Procurement. PBX 9407 is purchased from the US Army Armament
Readiness Command under LASL material specification 13Y-109098 Rev. C, dated
August 24,1978.
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