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Infoscitex investigated biosynthetic approaches toward the generation of nitramines (RDX, HMX) used in explosives. Nitramines are widely used by the U.S. military as key components of contemporary weapons. However, production of these nitroenergetics involves the use of highly concentrated hot nitric and sulfuric acids, results in the emission of nitrogen oxides, and is also a potential health hazard. The development of an alternative process for producing nitro-energetic compounds under milder conditions, in an environmentally friendly manner, and in higher yields is needed.
The objective of this project was to develop microorganisms capable of catalyzing bioconversion (oxidation-nitration) of the common RDX precursor, hexamine, into RDX in presence of nitrite and peroxide.
The project encompassed three main activities:
The following outcomes were generated:
Formation of RDX was not detected. However, it is possible that some RDX-like intermediates were formed in trace amounts.
The development of an alternative process for producing nitro-energetic compounds under milder conditions, in an environmentally friendly manner, and in higher yields would result in a significant saving and improvement of the quality of life in the surrounding communities.