Computational DFT studies on a series of toluene derivatives as potential high energy density compounds.

Based on the full optimized molecular geometric structures at B3LYP/6-31G**, B3LYP/6-31+G**, B3P86/6-31G**, and B3P86/6-31+G** levels, the densities (ρ), detonation velocities ( D), and pressures ( P) for a series of toluene derivatives, as well as their thermal stabilities, were investigated to look for high energy density compounds (HEDCs). The heats of formation (HOFs) are also calculated via designed isodesmic reactions. The calculations on the bond dissociation energies (BDEs) indicate that the BDEs of the initial scission step are between 48 and 59 kcal/mol, and pentanitrotoluene is the most reactive compound, while 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is the least reactive compound for toluene derivatives studied. A good linear relationship between BDE/ E and impact sensitivity is also obtained. The condensed phase HOFs are calculated for the title compounds. These results would provide basic information for the further studies of HEDCs. The detonation data of pentanitrotoluene show that it meets the requirement for HEDCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]