A Method for the Differentiation of Single-Base and Double-Base Smokeless Powders using the Hanging Drop Technique

Bulk smokeless gunpowder is manufactured in a large variety of shapes, sizes, and textures, many different types look similar, making it challenging to differentiate between types of powders. One chemical discriminating parameter is the presence of nitroglycerin, which often requires expensive instrumentation to be detected. By using the Hanging drop technique, whereby a sample is induced to react inside a drop hanging over it after, it is possible to differentiate between single and double-base smokeless powders. The method resulted in a successful, time effective, and non-destructive result for the detection of nitroglycerin.