The Formulations and Manufacturing group hosts a bespoke small scale explosives manufacturing facility. Staff within the group maintain expertise in reproducible formulating, processing and manufacturing of in-service and novel explosive compositions.
Processing work takes place remotely in a purpose-built explosive building, which researchers and customers can access to develop processing and manufacturing of explosive materials. Formulations development is supported in appropriately equipped laboratory for new and novel explosive compositions.
Investigation of additive manufacturing methods to produce energetic materials, is conducted in the processing facility. This includes extrusion methods (FFF/FDM and DIW/Paste), polymer vat methods (DLP and SLA) and a bespoke/proprietary Dry Powder Printing method.
Summary of Capabilities
Investigating novel formulations, small scale up to 10 g, includes compatibility and stability assessment.
Processing capacity of up to 1 kg.
Explosive mixers, including planetary and RAM.
A defined Process Development Bay to investigate and commission equipment.
Pellet pressing a wide range of geometries with hydraulic presses, 10, 50 and 100 tonne.
Support the development of additive manufacturing technologies.
Characterisation of powder, composition and pellet properties with dedicated equipment.
Key Facts
Purpose built explosive processing facility for researching novel explosives.
Over 35 years of formulations and processing experience.
Extensive knowledge of explosives compatibility and stability.
Established researchers in novel explosives.
