Effects of radiation on DMSO solutions with polymeric binders and HMX high explosive

A newly developed dismantlement process uses dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solvent to remove plastic bonded HMX explosives (PBX-9404 and LX-10) from bonded nuclear assemblies. It is remotely possible in this process that DMSO solutions of the explosives will come into prolonged contact with plutonium. This paper addresses the anticipated chemistry and consequences of this contact.