Synthesis and characterization of a new energetic compound: 1,1,2,2-tetra-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)cyclopropane (HDEX-252)

Abstract. Synthesis of energetic molecules with high nitrogen content is a preferred research topic during the last decades, in the area of explosives, due to their high heat of formation and increased density, especially if this high energy content do not affect their stability and sensitivity properties. The aim of this study was to present a facile synthesis route for a new nitrogen-rich compound, 1,1,2,2-tetra(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)cyclopropane (HDEX-252), starting from readily available materials, and using only water as the main solvent. HDEX-252 has a nitrogen content of 71.32%, its synthesis is safe and rather environmentally friendly, not involving the use of nitric acid.