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XTX8003
1. GENERAL PROPERTIES
1.1 Chemical and Physical Description. XTX (Extex) 8003 consists of PETN
coated with a low-temperature vulcanizing silicone resin, Sylgard 182. Uncured
XTX 8003 is putty-like and can be extruded through small openings at modest
pressures. After curing, it is white and rubbery.
1.2 Common Use. XTX 8003 is used in special applications that require ex-
plosives with small detonation failure diameters.
1.3 Toxicity.‘p2 There are no known toxicity problems associated with the use of
Sylgard 182. PETN, because it is insoluble in water, is slightly toxic. The recom-
mended maximum atmospheric concentration over an 8-h period is 15 mg/m3.
2. MANUFACTURE AND PROCUREMENT
2.1 Manufacture. Sylgard 182 resin and its curing agent are mixed with PETN
in a high-shear vertical mixer to the consistency of wet sea sand. This material is
passed through a three-roll differential paint mill until it is the consistency ‘of
glazier’s putty. After milling, XTX 8003 has a shelf life of 24 h at 25°C. Storage at
-30°C increases the shelf life to 8 months. When it is to be used, the XTX 8003 is
extruded into molds of the desired configuration. Curing or polymerization is
achieved by exposure to 65°C for 8-12 h.
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