GB855200A - Improvements in and relating to explosives - Google Patents

Abstract

855,200. Liquid oxygen explosives. AIR PRODUCTS Inc. June 21, 1957 [June 21, 1956], No. 19663/57. Classes 9(1) and 9(2). An explosive composition comprises a singlephase solution of fuel material and liquid oxygen. Specified fuels include methane, ethane and propane. The vapour phase may be rendered non-inflammable by supplying a gaseous diluent such as nitrogen. Liquid nitrogen may also be used as the refrigerant to keep the mixture liquid. A floating film or follower such as a thin plastic sheet or a layer of minute plastic bubbles may be provided on the surface of the solution in order to reduce evaporation. As shown (Fig. 1) the receptacle 1 contains a solution 2 of methane in liquid oxygen. The receptacle is covered by a cap 3 and immersed in liquid nitrogen 5 in an insulated container. Fig. 2 shows a device whereby the solutions may be prepared and stored safely. The insulated receptacle 7 is divided'into upper and lower parts by a frangible partition 8. The upper compartment 9 is provided with a filling inlet 11. A rigid tube 14 passes movably through a flanged opening 15 downwards through compartment 9 into compartment 10. The partition 8 is rigidly attached to tube 14. Liquid methane is used to fill the lower compartment, and liquid oxygen the upper. On striking the upper end of tube 14, the tube is forced downwards thus breaking partition 8 and allowing the liquids to mix. A modification is also described in which the component liquid gases are mixed in a common storage tank prior to use.