Bis-oxadiazole

[1] Bis-oxadiazole is related to bis-isoxazole tetranitrate (BITN), which was developed at the United States Army Research Laboratory (ARL).

With a high nitrogen content, these compounds are poised to release a large volume of very stable N2.

[2] It is a “melt-cast” explosive material that is potentially both more powerful and environmentally friendly alternative to TNT.

Treating DAG with methyl glycolate [pt] in the presence of base at high temperature, followed by nitration, yields bis(1,2,4-oxadiazole).

A low melting point of about 80 °C and high decomposition temperature of 295 °C allows manufacturers to safely pour TNT into molds.