Influence of the Prepolymer Structure of Glycidyl Azide Polymer (GAP) on Binder Properties - Some Theoretical Considerations

Glycidyl azide polymer (GAP) is a promising energetic binder for solid propellants, but it suffers from poor mechanical properties compared to hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB). This paper reviews the main factors affecting the mechanical properties of GAP-based binders, such as molecular weight and functionality, and discusses some possible strategies on how it could be improved. The equation of Carother is used for the theoretical consideration of the functionality of the GAP prepolymer.