Evaluation of the biological properties of RDX synthesized via efficient nitrolysis of hexamine by heteropolyacids using analysis of influential parameters obtained from central composite design method

Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX or hexogen among other names), is a typical single compound explosive and one of the most important explosives with the formula C3H6N6O6. A new efficient method of synthesizing Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) was introduced using nitrolysis of hexamethylenetetramine (Hexamine) with HNO3 in the presence of heteropolyacids at room temperature. Benefits include high product yield, short reaction time, mild conditions, and eco-friendliness. RDX's antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were evaluated using agar well diffusion at different pH levels and RDX amounts. Statistical methods like Response Surface Methodology and Central Composite Design were used for optimization. Results showed RDX inhibited Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus growth, with a stronger effect on E. coli. RDX concentration and pH levels affected Escherichia coli inhibition zone size but not for Staphylococcus aureus.