2. Applications

Figure 1 illustrates the usual classification of energetic materials. It concerns materials formulated for a specific application, but is not very suitable for classifying the molecules used in their composition. Indeed, the same compound is sometimes used for different purposes. For example, hexogen (figure 2 ) is used in the formulation of propellants and explosives. On the other hand, an energetic molecule is rarely used on its own. Energy crystals are processed as powders mixed with additives (binders, plasticizers) and then pressed or extruded. Liquids are often mixtures of oxidizing and reducing compounds