Ethylenedinitramine

Ethylenedinitramine (EDNA) is a chemical compound used primarily as a high explosive. It is a colorless, crystalline solid that melts at 91 degrees Celsius and is highly soluble in water. EDNA is a nitramine, a class of compounds with powerful explosive properties.

Chemical Structure

Ethylenedinitramine is a nitrogen-rich compound with the chemical formula C2H8N4O4. It consists of two amine groups (-NH2) and two nitro groups (-NO2) attached to a two-carbon ethylene backbone. The presence of both amine and nitro groups in the same molecule gives EDNA its explosive properties.

Synthesis

Ethylenedinitramine can be synthesized by the nitration of ethylenediamine with nitric acid. This reaction is highly exothermic and must be carried out under controlled conditions to prevent explosion.

Uses

The primary use of ethylenedinitramine is as a high explosive. It is used in a variety of military and industrial applications, including as a component of plastic explosives and as a detonator in mining operations. EDNA is also used in the synthesis of other nitramine explosives.

Safety

Ethylenedinitramine is a powerful explosive and must be handled with care. It is sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, and can explode if mishandled. Prolonged exposure to EDNA can cause skin and eye irritation, and ingestion or inhalation can cause serious health effects.

See Also

• Ethylenediamine
• Nitramine
• High explosive