Open Access

Emre Ünal, Matthias Muhr, Thomas M. Klapötke, Peter Kaul

• Triacetone triperoxide (TATP) and Hexamethylene triperoxide diamine (HMTD), known for their propensity towards use in improvised explosive devices due to facile synthesis from readily accessible precursors, present a considerable security challenge. Their sensitivity to mechanical stimuli, such as impact and friction, as well as to thermal input, necessitates the development of advanced detection methodologies. This study is dedicated to evaluate the influence of varied laser beam parameters during radiation on these peroxide-based energetic materials. A novel approach for the controlled energy delivery to substances under investigation involves the application of coatings with predefined absorption coefficients. This technique, coupled with the careful selection of laser parameters, enables the controlled local initiation of reaction in the energetic material without reaching the threshold for mass combustion, thereby avoiding detonation or deflagration. The experimental setup involves the laser irradiation of defined quantities of graphite-coated TATP and HMTD, with the subsequent laser processing being monitored using a sensitive microphone. This set-up enables a detailed investigation of the physical phenomena that manifest themselves during the interaction and thus contributes to the state of knowledge about the safe handling and detection of these energetic materials.