Design and Analysis of Scientific Networks on the Emerging and Safe Explosive Material (TKX-50) Using the Scientometric Software VOSviewer

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Faculty and Safety Research Institute, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran

2 Researcher, Faculty and Safety Research Institute, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

One of the fundamental principles of passive defense is the reduction of vulnerability of critical and military facilities against enemy attacks through non-armed strategies. Safe explosives, by mitigating unintended risks (such as accidental detonations or sabotage), contribute to enhancing the safety and security of infrastructures. The simultaneous increase in explosive power and reduction in sensitivity has led to the development of new generations of energetic materials. Among the noteworthy compounds in this context is dihydroxylammonium 5,5′-bis(tetrazolate)-1,1′-diolate (TKX-50). The primary objective of the present study is to design scientific networks of safe and emerging explosives (TKX-50) using the VOSviewer software. The methodology involves employing VOSviewer to analyze data retrieved from Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases. The project is structured into seven stages: monitoring organization, search and collection cycle, analysis and meta-analysis, image updating, trend analysis and estimation, validation, and dissemination with feedback. Findings indicate that emerging explosives, as safer materials with reduced environmental impact and higher explosive performance, can serve as alternatives to currently utilized energetic compounds in applied industries. Examination of TKX-50’s functional properties reveals that its explosive efficiency is comparable to CL-20. TKX-50 demonstrates favorable compatibility with most components in explosive formulations, and in some sources, it is even considered a substitute for certain nitramines. Sensitivity assessments show that despite its high energy content and density, TKX-50 exhibits low impact and friction sensitivity, along with reduced toxicity compared to many conventional explosives. These characteristics highlight its potential for the future development of more efficient yet safer energetic materials.

Keywords

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Passive Defense
Volume 16, Issue 4 - Serial Number 64
Serial number 64. Winter 2026
February 2026
Pages 71-89

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History

  • Receive Date: 25 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 11 June 2025
  • Accept Date: 20 September 2025
  • Publish Date: 19 February 2026

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